Transport refrigeration in the EU is shifting toward low-global warming potential (GWP) refrigerants, prompted by new regulations, retrofit initiatives, and assessment of lifecycle impacts across the SHK sector.
The revised F-Gas Regulation (EU) 2024/573, adopted in February 2024 and effective since March 11, 2024, implements strict limits on hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) usage. From January 2025, servicing equipment using high-GWP refrigerants faces bans, with further phase-down quotas and a complete HFC phase-out by 2050. Fleets reliant on synthetic refrigerants encounter rising operational costs and supply constraints, while alternatives such as electric, natural-refrigerant systems are expanding their market presence.
Background
The updated F-Gas Regulation prohibits servicing equipment with refrigerants having a GWP of 2500 or higher from January 2025. However, reclaimed or recycled refrigerants may be used until the end of 2029. More stringent restrictions take effect from 2027: stationary equipment using GWP above 750 cannot be serviced, and new equipment with high-GWP refrigerants is banned. The regulation also mandates sharp reductions in HFC production quotas, limiting supply to 60% of 2011-2013 levels starting in 2025, dropping to 15% by 2036.
Transport refrigeration has not yet been subjected to early direct bans, but operators report supply shortages and cost increases. In response, suppliers such as ECOOLTEC have launched all-electric transport refrigeration units using only natural refrigerants, ensuring compliance and resilience against future synthetic refrigerant restrictions.
Details
The F-Gas Regulation's service restrictions are redefining lifecycle strategies for transport refrigeration. High-GWP HFCs are being progressively withdrawn, and existing systems using such refrigerants may require retrofitting or replacement within the decade. These phased bans and diminishing quotas are expected to significantly decrease HFC availability, risking disruptions for cold-chain operations dependent on older systems.
ECOOLTEC's TM182 electric refrigeration unit exemplifies alternative technologies. Its natural refrigerant, fully electric design eliminates F-gas dependence, providing operators with a compliant solution as regulations intensify.
Outlook
With bans starting in 2025 and quota reductions imminent, stakeholders in transport refrigeration must evaluate retrofit paths and lifecycle planning. Contractors and fleet managers are advised to assess low-GWP or natural-refrigerant systems promptly to ensure regulatory compliance, cost efficiency, and sustainability alignment.
