New Low-GWP Refrigerant Option Arrives to Meet Stricter Environmental Standards

technician servicing HVAC system
Photo by Fabian Kleiser

Arkema has introduced Forane 516A, a new hydrofluoro-olefin refrigerant blend designed to replace the widely used R-134A in heating, cooling, and refrigeration systems. This development marks an important shift in the industry as manufacturers and consumers face increasingly strict environmental regulations on refrigerant choices.

What Makes Forane 516A Different

The new refrigerant carries several key advantages over traditional R-134A. Forane 516A is classified as A2L, meaning it has a low flammability rating and zero ozone depletion potential. More importantly, it features a Global Warming Potential (GWP) rating below 150, which is significantly lower than R-134A. This lower environmental impact makes it compliant with the EPA’s Significant New Alternatives Policy (SNAP) program, a regulatory framework that guides the phasing out of older, less environmentally friendly refrigerants.

The refrigerant also demonstrates what is called “zero glide” performance, a technical characteristic that means all components of the blend evaporate and condense at the same temperature. This property improves system efficiency and reduces energy consumption during operation, translating to lower cooling and heating costs over time.

Which Applications Will Use This Refrigerant

Forane 516A is being positioned primarily for new installations rather than retrofits of older systems. It works well in residential and light commercial air conditioning units, as well as in larger chillers used in commercial buildings. Additionally, the refrigerant shows promise in commercial refrigeration applications where energy efficiency and environmental performance are critical priorities.

The technology is also gaining traction in emerging cooling applications. As data centers expand and high-temperature heat pump systems become more common, A2L refrigerant adoption is accelerating across the industry, with Forane 516A positioned as an option for these cutting-edge thermal management needs.

What This Means for Shoppers

If you are planning to purchase a new cooling system or heat pump in the coming years, understanding refrigerant options will become increasingly important. Regulatory pressures are pushing the industry away from older refrigerant formulations, and manufacturers are designing new equipment around low-GWP alternatives. When comparing HVAC units, you may see Forane 516A listed as the refrigerant specification, which signals compliance with current and anticipated future environmental standards.

The lower GWP rating also reflects a broader industry commitment to reducing environmental impact. If environmental performance is a factor in your purchasing decision, equipment using this newer refrigerant represents a step forward. The improved energy efficiency can also provide modest savings on utility bills, particularly in climates with high cooling or heating demands.

The Broader Context of Refrigerant Regulation

Refrigerant regulation has been evolving for decades. The original push came from the need to phase out ozone-depleting chemicals. Now the focus has shifted to climate impact, measured by GWP. The EPA’s SNAP program continues to guide manufacturers toward lower-impact alternatives, and regulatory changes are reshaping how professionals approach refrigerant selection.

Arkema’s introduction of Forane 516A reflects this ongoing industry evolution. By offering a refrigerant that balances performance, safety, and environmental responsibility, the company is helping both manufacturers and end users prepare for a regulatory landscape that will continue to tighten over the next decade.

What to Consider When Purchasing New Equipment

When shopping for new HVAC or refrigeration equipment, ask your contractor or salesperson about the refrigerant type and its GWP rating. Equipment designed around low-GWP refrigerants like Forane 516A will be better positioned for regulatory compliance and may offer improved efficiency. While refrigerant type alone should not be your only decision factor, it is a useful indicator of how future-proofed your system is against upcoming environmental regulations and cost pressures.

As more low-GWP options enter the market, competition among refrigerant suppliers will likely increase, potentially benefiting consumers through better pricing and wider availability. The transition to environmentally responsible cooling solutions is underway, and products like Forane 516A represent the direction the industry is moving.