Singapore Eyes HFC Ban

Singapore is tightening its climate strategy by proposing new restrictions on hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) refrigerants in key cooling equipment. The National Environment Agency (NEA) opened a public consultation from 8 to 19 September 2025, inviting feedback on two key proposals targeting high-global warming potential (GWP) refrigerants and emissions during decommissioning.

New GWP Limits for HFC-Based Equipment

Under the proposed regulations, GWP thresholds will be capped at 150 for the following product categories:

• Standalone commercial refrigerators (with refrigerant charge ≤150g)
• Centralised commercial refrigeration systems
• Air-conditioning systems in passenger cars and light goods vehicles

All affected products would need to be registered under the Environmental Protection & Management Act (EPMA) and utilize low-GWP refrigerants to comply.

Mandatory On-Site Refrigerant Recovery

To curb emissions from end-of-life equipment, on-site refrigerant recovery will become mandatory for:

• Centralised commercial and industrial refrigeration systems
• Passenger vehicles and refrigerated trucks during decommissioning

These rules extend existing regulations already applied to chillers and household appliances, reinforcing Singapore’s commitment to greenhouse gas mitigation.

Implementation Timeline

The new rules are expected to take effect on 1 April 2027, with a one-year transition period until 31 March 2028. This will allow businesses to sell existing stock and honor pre-existing contracts.

Policy Context and Climate Goals

Singapore aims to cap national emissions at around 60 million tonnes CO₂e by 2030, and HFCs—being potent greenhouse gases—are a significant target. The proposals align with:

• The Montreal Protocol Kigali Amendment
• Prior bans on high-GWP chillers and household cooling devices
• National studies conducted between 2023 and 2024 on feasible low-GWP alternatives

What This Means for Businesses

Manufacturers, importers, and service providers should:

• Review and revise product lines to meet the GWP threshold
• Ensure refrigerant recovery capabilities are in place for servicing and decommissioning
• Engage with NEA during the consultation phase to shape the final regulation

NEA will review feedback and finalize the rules for enforcement from April 2027. Industry stakeholders are encouraged to monitor updates on the NEA public consultation page.