JP Fluorocarbon Emission Control Act — Designated Products System (Low-GWP Targets)
ENFORCEMENT TIMELINE
Effective April 1, 2015, with target years varying by product category
Overview
The Designated Products System under the Fluorocarbon Emission Control Act is a top-runner style system that requires manufacturers and importers of equipment using fluorocarbons, such as air conditioners, refrigeration and freezing equipment, and aerosol products, to reduce the environmental impact of the refrigerants they use, measured by global warming potential (GWP), below a target value by a target year set for each product category.
Enforcement Timeline
April 2015: The Designated Products System begins operation alongside the effective date of the Fluorocarbon Emission Control Act.
2018: The target year for residential air conditioners (a GWP of 750 or below) is reached.
2020: The first-stage target year for commercial air conditioners and refrigeration and freezing equipment is reached.
2025: The target year for the GWP target (750 or below) for commercial multi-split air conditioners is reached.
2026: Revised GWP targets and target years for low-temperature air conditioners and similar equipment take effect.
Business Impact
Manufacturers and importers of air conditioning and refrigeration equipment must reduce the average GWP of the designated products they manufacture and ship below the target value by the relevant target year. Failing to meet the target can result in recommendations, orders, and public disclosure of the company's name. Equipment users, such as store and factory managers, are also expected to choose low-GWP or natural refrigerant equipment.