Why Natural Refrigerants Are Growing in the UK
Natural refrigerants — CO2, ammonia (R717) and propane (R290) — are gaining ground in UK refrigeration and air conditioning as the pressure to move away from high-GWP synthetic refrigerants intensifies. Unlike HFCs, natural refrigerants have negligible direct climate impact and are not subject to F-Gas phase-down quotas.
CO2 (R744) — Supermarket and Industrial Applications
CO2 transcritical refrigeration has become the technology of choice for large supermarket refrigeration systems. With a GWP of 1, zero ODP and excellent performance at low temperatures, CO2 systems offer a long-term compliant solution. However, they operate at very high pressures (up to 130 bar in transcritical mode) and require purpose-built equipment and specialist engineers.
Ammonia (R717) — Industrial Cold Storage
Ammonia has been used in industrial refrigeration for over a century. It offers exceptional energy efficiency and a GWP of 0, but its toxicity (B2L classification) means it is restricted to industrial settings where engineering controls and trained personnel can manage the hazard safely. UK ammonia refrigeration systems are subject to PSSR and COSHH regulations in addition to F-Gas rules.
Propane (R290) — Small Commercial and Domestic
R290 propane is increasingly used in small commercial display cabinets, ice cream freezers and newer domestic heat pumps. With a GWP of 3 and excellent thermodynamic properties, it is one of the most future-proof options available. Its A3 (highly flammable) classification limits system charge sizes and application scope, but within those constraints it performs exceptionally well.
Are Natural Refrigerants Right for Your Application?
Natural refrigerants often require significant upfront investment in specialist equipment and training. For most commercial HVAC and refrigeration applications in the UK, lower-GWP HFCs such as R32 and HFOs remain the practical transition step. Browse our full refrigerant range for all current options.