Specifically, since 1st January 2026, new restrictions apply to:
- Electrical switches: prohibition on the use of fluorinated gas for new equipment or the maintenance of equipment ≤ 24kV, except in cases of exemption.
- Servicing or maintenance of air conditioning equipment or heat pumps: prohibition on the use of refrigerants if the GWP of virgin HFC or blends containing virgin HFC is ≥ 2500.
- Domestic refrigeration: prohibition on the use of fluorinated fluids (HFCs, HFOs) in new equipment (except for safety requirements).
At the same time, Article 17 of the EU F-Gas III Regulation introduces a contribution linked to the allocation of quotas. The amount is three euros for each tonne of CO2 equivalent and applies to all HFC fluids and HFC/HFO blends. Pure HFO products (R-1234ze, R-1234yf, R-1233zd) and reclaimed products are not affected by this levy. The aim is to limit the use of fluids with high global warming potential (GWP).
2027: a crucial year to start preparing for now!
Quotas reduced by more than 50%
The EU F-Gas III regulation provides for a very sharp drop in the quantities placed on the market in 2027. Anticipating the substitution of currently used refrigerants will make it possible to plan future investments, the work to be carried out and the resources required. Professionals must prepare by taking stock of the high GWP refrigerants still contained in their installations. This inventory will enable them to convert installations to lower GWP refrigerants where technically feasible and to set up regeneration programmes to keep those that cannot be converted in operation.
Recovery and reclamation: a tool to combat declining quantities available on the market
Recovering refrigerants and sending them to an approved waste treatment site will enable non-converted installations to continue operating. Reclaimed fluids are not subject to EU F-Gas III quotas. In addition, treating used refrigerant to achieve performance equivalent to that of a virgin substance offers many advantages: guaranteed composition and performance of the regenerated fluid (certificate of conformity), regulatory compliance labelling, quality and safety.
Training
EU F-Gas III also requires training for individuals working with non-fluorinated fluids such as hydrocarbons, ammonia or CO2. In France particularly, two new decrees relating to certificates of competence and aptitude were published in December 2025 to include the different types of refrigerants and introduce new categories of activities.
There is no doubt that everyone must take action without delay!