Workshop to Address Uptake of Non-HFC Refrigerants in South Africa

The South African government, in partnership with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), is hosting a Cape Town workshop on December 5-6 focused on opportunities for the uptake of non-HFC refrigerants, energy efficiency, and safety standards while phasing down HFCs under the Kigali amendment.  

Since South Africa’s ratification of the Kigali Amendment on August 1, the country’s Department of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries (DEFF) has been working closely with UNIDO to allow for a smooth transition towards Kigali Amendment implementation in the country. This also includes the alternative refrigerant options available. The DEFF has expressed interest in “leapfrogging over HFCs” in previous stakeholder meetings and hopes to assist the local HVAC&R industry in speeding up the HFC phase down. 

The December workshop aims to bring together government and end-users, as well as designers, manufacturers and distributors of HVAC&R equipment, to discuss what is required to spur the market uptake of non-HFC alternatives and energy-efficient appliances. 

UNIDO’s work in South Africa includes strengthening the institutional capacities to respond to the obligations arising from the Kigali Amendment and provide support along the way as implementing agency.  

Day one of the workshop will focus on experiences in other countries, extensively looking at ways of improving energy efficiency in HVAC&R systems. It will also cover standards and explore market transformations. 

Day two will discuss policies and activities assisting the HFC phase-down process. Role players will give presentations and a panel discussion will take place on “available technologies in the HFC phase-down process, options for unlocking benefits towards uptake of non-HFC technologies and fostering sustainable cold chain.”  

• Attend the workshop: The workshop is free for all relevant industry stakeholders and takes place at the Premier Hotel in Sea Point, Cape Town. Interested parties can RSVP to Lutendo Ndhlovu of DEFF at LNdhlovu@environment.gov.za.