EPA Finalizes Rule on Phasedown of Hydrofluorocarbons

On September 20, 2024, EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan signed a significant final rule under the American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act aimed at reducing the use of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs). This rule establishes an Emissions Reduction and Reclamation (ER&R) Program for managing certain HFCs and their substitutes, setting important guidelines for reducing emissions and promoting sustainable practices.

Key components of the rule include:

• Leak repair requirements for specific appliances
• Use of automatic leak detection systems for new and existing equipment
• Standards for reclaimed HFC refrigerants
• Use of reclaimed HFCs in equipment servicing and repair
• Use of recycled HFCs in fire suppression equipment
• Mandatory recovery of HFCs from disposable cylinders prior to disposal
• Recordkeeping, reporting, and labeling requirements

Additionally, the rule introduces alternative recycling criteria for ignitable used refrigerants, including HFCs and their substitutes, under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA).

The pre-publication version of the rule is available on the EPA’s website and will be updated once the final rule is published in the Federal Register. For more details, the public can access the rule by searching docket number EPA-HQ-OAR-2022-0606 on regulations.gov