The MPCA sought proposals from eligible applicants for projects that aim to reduce emissions of high global warming potential (HGWP) greenhouse gas (GHG) refrigerants from facilities within Minnesota.
Application deadline was April 14, 2023.
More information
Once largely used, ozone-damaging refrigerants such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) are being phased out, making way for replacements. Many of the replacements used are hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), which have high global warming potential (HGWP). While these replacements spare the ozone layer, some have 1,000 to 9,000 times greater capacity to warm the atmosphere than carbon dioxide. For example, if released, one 30-pound tank of R-404a has a greater global warming impact than driving eleven cars for a year. Substitutes for HGWP GHG refrigerants are available. Upgrading to new refrigerant systems and environmentally friendly refrigerants can greatly reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Lists of alternatives and their GWP can be found online on the Environmental Protection Agency website: https://www.epa.gov/snap/retail-food-refrigeration