Europe commits to ambitious HFC phase-down

The EU Parliament has voted to accept revisions to the F-gas regulation that will result in a steeper phase-down of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) on the EU market from 2039 onwards, with a full HFC production and consumption phase-out by 2050. This aligns with the EU’s 2050 climate neutrality goal.

“To stimulate the uptake of climate-friendly solutions and to provide certainty for consumers and investors, MEPs (members of the European Parliament) want to strengthen the requirements that govern the placing on the EU single market of products containing F-gases,” says the European Parliament.

“The report includes specific phase-out dates for the use of F-gases in sectors where it is technologically and economically feasible to switch to alternatives, such as refrigeration, air conditioning, heat pumps and electrical switchgear.”

MEPs also supported better policing by allowing customs authorities to seize and confiscate F-gases imported or exported in violation of the rules.

“F-gases are not well known, but have major implications for our climate, as they are very powerful greenhouse gases,” says Rapporteur Bas Eickhout. “In most instances, natural alternatives are readily available. That’s why we voted for an ambitious position to fully phase out F-gases by 2050 and in most sectors already by the end of this decade. We are providing clarity to the market and a signal to invest in alternatives. Many European companies are already at the forefront of this development and will benefit from it, because of their market position and export opportunities.”

To read to the full proposal submitted to the EU Parliament, click here.