EPA moves to relax HFC refrigerant limits
The EPA under Administrator Lee Zeldin proposed loosening parts of a Biden‑era 2023 rule that accelerates the phaseout of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) under the 2020 AIM Act, arguing businesses need more time and flexibility. The plan, which follows a September step easing requirements for cold‑storage warehouses and delaying some compliance to 2032, would affect grocery chains, refrigeration firms, and HVAC companies nationwide, including in the Twin Cities, while environmental groups warn it will worsen climate pollution and disrupt ongoing industry transitions.
📌 Key Facts
- EPA proposal would relax elements of the 2023 Technology Transitions Rule implementing the 2020 AIM Act HFC phase‑down.
- In September, EPA eased standards for cold‑storage facilities and delayed other provisions until 2032.
- Business groups initially backed the 2020 HFC phase‑down; environmental groups now oppose the rollback as harmful to climate goals.