The great challenges of air conditioning and refrigeration

Among the great challenges for the sector posed by Atecyr, the Spanish Technical Association of Air Conditioning and Refrigeration, is the scarcity of energy resources and raw materials. "The HVAC sector has a key role to play in making thermal installations as efficient as possible, and thus contribute, together with the reduction of demand and the deployment of renewable energies, to making the consumption of buildings sustainable enough to maintain comfortable conditions, health and safety inside them".

The second major challenge is the impact of the new Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD). "The ultimate goal is to make the entire building stock sustainable, and therefore zero net emissions by 2050, which is one of the most important challenges facing the HVAC and refrigeration sector. To meet this challenge, it is necessary to keep abreast of the latest legislative developments and how to meet them technically".

Thirdly, there is the new F-Gas regulation. "The new regulation places stricter restrictions on the use of these gases, which are potent greenhouse gases, with the aim of reducing their environmental impact and contributing to the fight against climate change". The reduction of F-gases and the transition to new refrigerants "presents several technical and economic challenges for the industry, but it is a crucial step towards sustainability".

Efficient solutions

In terms of innovation and adoption of new technologies, "the industry will need to invest in research and development to create solutions that not only comply with the new regulations, but also offer additional benefits in terms of energy efficiency and operational performance".

The new challenges also include economic and logistical ones. "Conversion of existing equipment and investment in new technologies can be costly for companies. In addition, the supply and availability of alternative refrigerants must be properly managed to avoid service disruptions and ensure a smooth transition".

Finally, compliance with the new F-Gas regulation requires strict monitoring and a coordinated effort between regulatory authorities and industry. "It is essential that companies implement effective monitoring and reporting systems to ensure that they are meeting their HFC reduction targets. According to Atecyr, collaboration between the public and private sectors "will be essential to overcome these challenges and achieve the aims of regulation".

Atecyr course information: https://www.atecyr.org/recursos-tecnicos/formacion/curso-experto-en-climatizacion/introduccion.php