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The refrigeration and air conditioning industry is entering a period of significant change. With new EU regulations coming into force, the cost of refrigerants, particularly those with a high Global Warming Potential (GWP), is set to rise sharply. For businesses that rely on cooling and refrigeration systems to operate efficiently, understanding these changes is essential to managing future costs and compliance.
What Is Changing and Why It Matters
From 2026, the EU will introduce a Quota Tax of €3 per tonne of CO₂ equivalent applied to refrigerants. While this might seem modest, for high-GWP refrigerants such as R-134a, costs could increase by around 10%.
This comes at a time when supply chain pressures are already affecting availability. Some refrigerants are becoming harder to source, meaning businesses could face higher prices, longer wait times, and even supply shortages. The result is a perfect storm for any organisation dependent on cooling systems.
What This Means for Your Business
For companies that rely on high-GWP refrigerants, the financial and operational impact could be significant. As prices rise and availability tightens, businesses may face:
These issues can directly affect operational efficiency and profitability. Without forward planning, what starts as a pricing issue could evolve into a serious business continuity challenge.
Why You Should Act Now
The upcoming refrigerant changes are more than a regulatory adjustment; they mark a shift in how refrigeration systems must be managed. Taking a proactive approach now will allow your business to adapt smoothly, minimise costs, and avoid compliance risks.
By planning ahead, you can:
A well-prepared strategy not only safeguards your business against regulatory pressure but also supports sustainable and cost-effective operations.
How We Can Help You Stay Ahead
We recognise the challenges these upcoming changes present, and we’ve built tools specifically designed to help our clients stay ahead. Through our purpose-built Client Portal, you can monitor, analyse, and manage your refrigeration systems more effectively.
Our digital tools provide detailed insights into system performance, helping you make informed decisions based on real data. The Equipment Lifecycle Report and Refrigerant Usage Report are two of our most valuable features, allowing you to:
By reviewing your systems in detail, we help you build a long-term strategy that keeps your operations efficient, compliant, and ready for future regulations.
The most effective way to manage rising refrigerant costs is to phase out older, high-GWP refrigerants and transition to lower-GWP alternatives. This not only ensures compliance but also enhances performance and reduces running costs.
We can help you every step of the way, reviewing your current systems, recommending suitable alternatives, and supporting you through upgrades or replacements. Our approach combines:
By taking proactive steps now, you can protect your business from cost volatility and environmental regulations while improving sustainability.
We have been a trusted partner to businesses across the UK for years, helping clients navigate the evolving refrigeration landscape with confidence. Our tailored solutions, expert knowledge, and innovative technology make it easier to:
We don’t just help you respond to change, we help you prepare for it.
1. Why are refrigerant prices increasing?
Prices are rising due to the EU’s new Quota Tax, which takes effect in 2026, and ongoing supply shortages affecting high-GWP refrigerants.
2. What is the EU Quota Tax?
The Quota Tax introduces a €3 per tonne CO₂ equivalent charge on refrigerants, encouraging the use of low-GWP alternatives to reduce environmental impact.
3. How will this affect my business?
Businesses using high-GWP refrigerants may face higher costs, longer lead times, and potential downtime if they don’t plan ahead.
4. Can we help reduce these costs?
Yes. Our Client Portal, Equipment Lifecycle Reports, and Refrigerant Usage Reports help businesses forecast costs, identify inefficiencies, and plan for lower-cost alternatives.
5. What are low-GWP refrigerants?
Low-GWP refrigerants are designed to have a smaller environmental footprint and are less affected by new regulatory taxes and restrictions.
6. How can my business prepare?
Start by reviewing your current systems and refrigerant usage. We can support you in identifying risks, implementing changes, and future-proofing your operations.
The refrigerant market is changing, and those changes will have real financial and operational consequences. But with the right support, businesses can not only stay compliant but also turn this challenge into an opportunity for improvement.
We’re here to help you understand, plan, and adapt to the new refrigerant landscape. Our expert team and innovative tools are designed to give you visibility, control, and confidence in your refrigeration strategy.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can help your business manage refrigerant costs, ensure compliance, and future-proof your cooling systems.
IRS Ltd (Industrial Refrigeration Services Limited), was founded in 1990 built on a reputation of quality services and cost saving solutions. We are experts in energy management, embracing all aspects of industrial and commercial users of refrigeration, air conditioning and heat exchange systems.
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