The American Innovation Manufacturing (AIM) Act is comprehensive federal legislation enacted in December 2020 that regulates hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) refrigerants and establishes a phasedown schedule for their reduction in HVAC and refrigeration systems. The act implements commitments under the Kigali Amendment and represents the most significant climate protection measure for the refrigeration industry since the Montreal Protocol.
Key Provisions
The AIM Act grants EPA authority to mandate a gradual HFC phasedown reaching 85% reduction by 2036, starting from a 2011-2013 baseline. It authorizes allocation trading, importation controls, and penalty structures for non-compliance. The legislation requires transition to lower-GWP alternatives like HFO refrigerants and includes safety standards for flammable refrigerant use. It establishes deadlines for equipment manufacturers to redesign systems for new refrigerants.
Industry Transformation
The AIM Act drives fundamental changes in HVAC equipment design, refrigerant selection, and service practices. Manufacturers have invested billions in R&D for low-GWP refrigerants and system modifications. HVAC contractors face mandatory training and certification updates for handling new refrigerants with different thermodynamic properties. The act reduces projected climate impact by preventing release of 570 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent through 2050, making it critical climate legislation for the HVAC sector.