F gas Regulation in Great Britain: Reform of the HFC phasedown

Overview

This consultation focuses on specific proposals for HFC phasedown reform.  We propose changing the HFC phasedown in the F gas Regulation by adjusting the existing schedule (which is set out in Annex 5 of the F gas Regulation) from 2027 and adding further steps from 2030 until 2050. Those adjustments would mean revising the end target of the phasedown – i.e. replacing the 79% reduction by 2030 target with a 98.6% reduction by 2048 target. 

The proposal in this consultation has been developed through collaborative working between UK, Scottish and Welsh governments. However, as the proposal to change the HFC phasedown for GB relates to a reserved matter, Defra’s Secretary of State is consulting on the proposal.

If, following this consultation and subsequent government consideration, we decide to proceed with reforms, those would be legislative reforms. A targeted approach to proposed reform has been taken, with the aim of implementing changes which will contribute to additional emissions savings as soon as possible.

We propose changing the HFC phasedown schedule to:

1. Adjust the existing percentage phasedown schedule from 1 January 2027; and
2. Add further phasedown steps from 2030 until 2050

Why your views matter

We are keen to gather evidence and views on the proposal. To ensure we can best incorporate the feedback received to improve and refine our assumptions and modelling, please refer to the supporting De Minimis Assessment and the Technical Assumptions and Data spreadsheet before answering the questions in this consultation.      

Information and comments submitted through this consultation will be used to inform our consideration of next steps. A report summarising responses and an outline of next steps will be published on gov.uk following the conclusion of the consultation.    

Citizen Space is an online consultation tool. We strongly encourage that responses are made via Citizen Space as using the online survey greatly assists our analysis of the responses. Alternative options are provided below if required:

• By email to fgas@defra.gov.uk
• Written responses by post, specifying which questions you are responding to:

F gas Regulation in Great Britain: Consultation                                              
Domestic F gases and ODS Team
Defra
1^st Floor, Seacole Building
2 Marsham Street
London
SW1P 4DF

Please note, any responses sent by post must have arrived at the above address by the closing date of the consultation in order to be considered. Unfortunately, we cannot analyse any responses received after this date. To ensure your response is included in the analysis, please consider responding online via Citizen Space.

When you reply, please confirm whether you are replying as an individual or submitting an official response on behalf of an organisation and include:

• your name
• your position (if applicable)
• the name of organisation (if applicable)