EPA Finalizes Third Rule in HFC Phasedown Under AIM Act

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has finalized the third rule under the American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act, to phase down hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), potent greenhouse gases widely used in refrigeration and air conditioning. This latest regulation builds on the agency’s efforts to reduce HFC emissions and meet global climate goals. The AIM Act, enacted in 2020, mandates a gradual phasedown of HFC production and consumption in the United States by 85% over 15 years.

The recently released third rule focuses on enforcement mechanisms to ensure compliance with phasedown targets. The rulemaking establishes an emissions reduction and reclamation program for the management of HFCs that includes requirements for leak repair and installation and use of automatic leak detection systems for certain equipment. It also addresses servicing and/or repair of certain refrigerant-containing equipment to be done with reclaimed HFCs and technician training, The rule also introduces provisions for improved data reporting and strengthened oversight of the HFC market.