EU F-GAS REGULATION – NOT OVER YET!
Since the entry into force of the new EU F-Gas Regulation (EU2024/573) in March 2024, significant work has been carried out to adopt several implementing acts and derogations to ensure a smoother implementation of the regulation.
To date, four derogations have been submitted by Member States and approved by the Commission:
1. An exemption for the use of F-gases with a global warming potential (GWP) of 150 or more in blood transport containers and contact shock freezers for blood plasma. This derogation applies from 1 January 2025 and remains in force until 31 December 2026.
2. An exception for the use of F-gases with a GWP of 150 or more in mechanical cryogenic freezers designed to achieve -150°C. This exception applies on 1 January 2025 and remains in effect until 31 December 2028.
3. An exception for the use of F-gases in environmental simulation, spray drying, freeze drying and centrifuges. This exception applies on 1 January 2025 and remains in effect until 31 December 2028.
4. An exception for the use of F-gases with a GWP of 150 or more in jet chambers, artisanal ice cream makers, ice machines, food preservation and regeneration carts, retarder proofing cabinets, frozen beverage dispensers and cold cream dispensers. This derogation shall apply from 1 January 2025 and shall remain in force until 30 June 2026.