Beyond HFCs: The benefits of CO2 refrigeration for supermarkets

Sponsored by Smart Care

CO2 refrigeration is gaining popularity worldwide, and for a good reason. Instead of harmful greenhouse gases, CO2 refrigeration uses carbon dioxide, a natural and non-toxic refrigerant. With a global warming potential (GWP) of only 1, CO2 refrigeration has a lower impact on ozone depletion, reducing the environmental harm caused by traditional hydrofluorocarbon refrigerants.

The Push Toward Natural Refrigerants

Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) are synthetic, man-made chemicals typically used in air-conditioning and refrigeration. HFCs are considered a climate “super-pollutant” – greenhouse gases with hundreds to thousands of times the heat-trapping power of CO2. Once considered a suitable replacement for ozone-depleting substances like chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), HFCs are now the fastest-growing greenhouse gases in the world.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that the average U.S. supermarket refrigeration system holds about 3,500 pounds of refrigerant and has an annual leak rate of about 25%. Based on these numbers, a single supermarket emits 875 pounds of HFCs each year, equal to the emissions from more than 336 cars.

The Tipping Point

In 2020, Congress enacted the American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act directing the EPA to phase down production and consumption of HFCs in the US by 85 percent by 2036. The Act encourages the use of natural refrigerants, like CO2, which are environmentally friendly and reduce the emission of harmful chemicals into the atmosphere.

The Act aims to reduce the use of HFCs by gradually limiting the supply of HFC refrigerants over a 14-year period. This will, in turn, lend to a reduction in allowable CO2 emissions. This is likely to result in limited availability of common HFC refrigerants like R-404A and R-507A.

Saving Money and the Planet

In addition to the environmental benefits, CO2 refrigeration also offers financial advantages. The cost of traditional refrigerants has increased three-fold over the last two years. While upgrading to a CO2 system comes at a price, it is an investment that provides long-term savings.  CO2 systems are more energy-efficient, offering 10% more energy savings than HFC parallel rack systems. Plus, they require less maintenance, resulting in a lower total cost of ownership (TCO).

As a result of its environmental and financial benefits, the use of CO2 as a refrigerant has been gaining popularity in recent years. It’s also worth noting that natural refrigerants are exempt from EPA section 608 and have a reduced regulatory reporting burden. Some supermarkets, such as Whole Foods Market and Aldi, have already switched to CO2 refrigeration systems, and the EPA is urging others to follow suit.

Facilitating the Transition

If you're considering updating your refrigeration, start by assessing your current system to determine the feasibility of implementing CO2 refrigeration. Seek the help of a reputable service provider with experience in CO2 systems. Collaborating with experts ensures proper system design, installation, and maintenance. Updating your refrigeration system may seem daunting, but it is a proven solution that can help your supermarket thrive.

With regulations becoming more widespread, CO2 systems offer tremendous environmental benefits and help to future-proof retailers’ investments. Partner with Smart Care and create a plan to bring your sustainability vision to life. Make the transition to CO2 refrigeration and enjoy the benefits of a greener, more profitable supermarket business.