Active - General Other - UK
Date: 25 Jul 2008
Aberdeen-based sustainable energy solutions firm Active has warned that time is running out for companies to replace or convert certain types of air conditioning and refrigeration systems which will become illegal to maintain after December 2009.
As part of the European Commission's regulations on ozone depleting substances, it will be illegal to use new HCFCs (hydrochlorofluorocarbons) for maintaining and servicing refrigeration and air conditioning equipment in just 17 months time.
Ian Nicol, managing director of Active, said: "HCFCs are very commonly used in commercial and industrial air-conditioning systems. Although it has been illegal for manufacturers to use them in new equipment since 2001, a 10 year window for the maintenance of existing systems was built into the regulations to give people time to make the changeover."
As of the 1st of January 2010, companies with old equipment will still be able to use recycled HCFCs to maintain their systems. Industry professionals are predicting that demand for reclaimed products will be high resulting in costly price rises for businesses relying on recycled HCFCs.
"Although the deadline for dealing with these changes is still many months away, the sheer number of companies who are leaving it to the last minute is going to make it impossible for everyone to meet the deadline. It is very important that businesses start planning for the future now," Ian continued.
The first step is to assess the strategic importance of air conditioning and refrigeration systems to your business. If these systems are critical to your activities, then it is important you develop a structured plan for phasing out old equipment. The most cost-effective solution will likely involve the conversion of existing plant where possible, along with the purchase of new equipment.
Phase out should be quite simple for those companies that make minimal use of air conditioning systems. The majority of small scale refrigeration units are extremely reliable and can run for up to 20 years with regular professional maintenance. These businesses should be aware that when the time comes for their systems to be repaired the best course of action may be to invest in a completely new energy efficient systems which will deliver long term cost savings.
Ian said: "Every organisation which makes use of air conditioning and refrigeration equipment should be using the time they have left before change is enforced to consider what will be the best long term solution for their needs.
"Many businesses which are being forced into change by these new regulations are using the situation to invest in renewable systems to handle their heating and cooling needs. As energy prices continue to rise, sustainable energy systems are becoming the clear choice for companies looking to make long term savings and deliver on their environmental commitments."
For those who are unsure about the best course of action to take, the advice from the Department for Business Enterprise and Regulatory Reform (BERR) is to consult your equipment supplier or a qualified refrigeration engineer.
Ian Nicol, managing director of Active
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