Beyond HFCs: The Advantages of CO2 Refrigeration

Shift To Natural Refrigerants 

Historically, HFCs have been widely used in refrigeration and air-conditioning systems. However, these synthetic chemicals are classified as climate “super-pollutants” due to their exceptionally high heat-trapping capabilities — often hundreds to thousands of times greater than CO₂. While originally developed as a replacement for CFCs and HCFCs, HFCs have since emerged as one of the fastest-growing contributors to greenhouse gas emissions globally. 

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), refrigeration systems in a typical U.S. supermarket contain approximately 3,500 pounds of refrigerant and have an annual leak rate of around 25%. This translates to an estimated 875 pounds of HFC emissions per store annually — equivalent to emissions produced by over 336 cars in a year. 

Recognizing the environmental impact of HFCs, Congress passed the AIM Act in 2020. This legislation mandates an 85% reduction in HFC production and consumption in the U.S. by 2036, promoting the adoption of eco-friendly refrigerants such as CO₂. The phasedown approach aims to systematically decrease the availability of HFC refrigerants over a 14-year period. This transition will likely lead to shortages and increased costs for commonly used HFC refrigerants such as R-404A and R-507A, reinforcing the urgency for businesses to explore alternative solutions. 

Benefits 

Beyond its environmental advantages, CO₂ refrigeration also presents a compelling financial case. The cost of traditional refrigerants has tripled in the last two years, making the shift to CO₂ systems a strategic investment. Although the initial upgrade involves some expense, CO₂ refrigeration systems provide long-term savings through increased energy efficiency, delivering up to 10% more energy savings compared to HFC parallel rack systems. Furthermore, CO₂ systems require less maintenance, reducing the total cost of ownership (TCO). 

Due to these benefits, CO₂ refrigeration has been gaining momentum with major retailers already making the switch. Additionally, natural refrigerants like CO₂ are exempt from EPA Section 608 regulations, alleviating some of the compliance burdens associated with traditional refrigerants. 

Food retailers considering upgrading their refrigeration system should begin by evaluating their current setup to determine the feasibility of implementing CO₂ refrigeration. Engaging an experienced service provider that has expertise in CO₂ systems is crucial for ensuring a seamless transition, from design and installation to ongoing maintenance. For example, Smart Care can develop a customized strategy that embraces the future of refrigeration, as we’ve helped cold storage facilities and grocery and convenience stores around the nation make the switch. 

While the switch to CO₂ refrigeration may seem complex, it is a proven, forward-thinking solution that enhances sustainability while optimizing operational efficiency. As environmental regulations become more stringent, adopting CO₂ systems will not only help reduce an operation’s carbon footprint, but also safeguard the business from future regulatory challenges.