Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs)

The Department's Prohibition of Hydrofluorocarbons in Specific End-Uses (250-RICR-120-05-53)regulation became effective on August 1st, 2021. Rhode Island, as part of the U.S. Climate Alliance, is taking action to reduce certain HFCs and HFC blends that pose an unnecessary risk to the environment. The final regulation prohibits manufacturers from selling air conditioning and refrigeration equipment, aerosol propellants, and foam products that use or contain high global warming potential HFCs. In addition to product and equipment sales, the retrofit or installation of equipment using prohibited HFCs will not be allowed after the equipment’s prohibition date. Prohibition dates vary based on the product and equipment being manufactured. The prohibitions do not apply to products and equipment manufactured prior to an applicable effective date. For a complete list of banned substances and their prohibition dates, see section 53.6(A) of 250-RICR-120-05-53.

Other states that have finalized HFC phase-down legislation are California, Colorado, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Vermont, Virginia, and Washington.

Why is the regulation important?

Hydrofluorocarbons are potent greenhouse gases that can be thousands of times more harmful than carbon dioxide to Earth's climate system. Viable alternatives that are safer for human health and the environment exist. This regulation also allows Rhode Island to stay committed to the GHG emissions reduction mandates established by the 2021 Act on Climate.

Who does this regulation apply to?

The final regulation applies to any person who sells, offers for sale, leases, rents, installs, uses, or manufacturers or otherwise cause to be entered into commerce, within the state of Rhode Island, any product or equipment that contain restricted HFCs.

Additional Resources

For further information, email Sean Carney or call 401-537-4441.