The Eurovent HVACR Industry Day, by Eurovent Middle East on May 30 in Dubai, gathered manufacturers and other stakeholders in the HVACR sector to discuss regulations, advancements and the possible direction ahead. The conference addressed key topics, such as the ratification of the Kigali Amendment by GCC region countries; ventilation and indoor air quality (IAQ), post-pandemic; and the impact of international regulations on the HVACR industry.

Markus Lattner, Managing Director, Eurovent Middle East, in his opening remarks, expressed gratitude for the industry’s resilience and emphasised the importance of proactive engagement to tackle market issues. He welcomed new board members and acknowledged recent leadership transitions, including Andrea Cavalet as the new President of Eurovent Middle East.

Cavalet, who is also General Manager, Epta Middle East, opened the session with an overview of the current trends and challenges in the HVACR market. He highlighted the increasing demand for energy-efficient solutions and the need for regulatory compliance to meet global environmental standards. Cavalet stressed that the HVACR industry must continue to innovate and adopt new technologies to stay competitive and sustainable.

Cavalet said: “The HVACR industry plays a vital role in shaping the future of the Middle East, and since we face challenges like energy demand and growing focus on sustainability, our contribution to energy efficiency, Indoor Air Quality, and green approach for education and training will be vital for this region. This meeting serves as our dialogue platform for collaboration and knowledge sharing.”

Lattner, resonating Cavalet’s words, led the discussion relating to regulatory updates in Saudi Arabia, including efforts to implement standby power regulations, and revisions to the regulation on Large Capacity Air Conditioning. He highlighted the association’s advocacy efforts in addressing the regulatory changes, emphasising the importance of collective action in shaping regulations that support industry interests. He also highlighted partnerships with organisations, such as the United Nations Environment Program UNEP, aimed at providing advice, guidance and recommendations to government organisations involved in refrigerant transition efforts.

Lattner discussed ongoing efforts in standardisation, including participation in committees and discussions on Gulf regional standards for HVACR equipment. He emphasised the importance of the efforts in ensuring consistency and quality in industry practices.

Lattner outlined educational initiatives, including the development of academy courses and training programmes aimed at enhancing industry expertise and standards. The initiatives, he said, reflect a commitment to professional development and the raising of industry standards. He mentioned plans for joint industry congresses and conferences, highlighting the association’s efforts to increase visibility and impact in key markets such as Saudi Arabia.

Khalid Klaly, Montreal Protocol Regional Coordinator for West Asia, at UNEP, gave the Keynote Address, during which he presented an overview on the future of environmental regulations and their impact on local economies.

Klaly commenced his presentation by emphasising the historical success of the Montreal Protocol, established in 1987, which marked a significant international effort to combat ozone layer depletion. The Protocol initially targeted eight major ozone-depleting substances but has since expanded to control nearly 100 harmful chemicals, he said. He added that as of 2009, it achieved universal ratification by 197 countries, underscoring its global significance and effectiveness.

Highlighting the gradual recovery of the ozone layer, Klaly said, “We are expecting that the ozone layer will return to its original conditions by 2060 following the implementation of the Protocol.” The successful phase-out of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and halons by 2010 and other hazardous substances by 2015 have collectively been a significant milestone, he said.

Klaly said that the Kigali Amendment, adopted in 2016, represents the next phase in global environmental policy, focusing on the phasedown of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs). Pointing to the fact that although HFCs do not deplete the ozone layer, they have a high global warming potential (GWP), he added that the Amendment aims to reduce HFC use by 85% by 2050, which is projected to prevent up to 0.5 degrees Celsius of global warming by mid-century.

In his detailed breakdown, Klaly explained that industrialised countries are ahead in the HFC phase-out schedule, with a completion target of 2036. Meanwhile, developing countries, including those in West Asia, have until 2047 to achieve an 85% reduction, he said. He said that the first phase-out targets for West Asia are set for 2025, with a significant milestone of reducing HFC consumption by 67.5%.

Klaly highlighted the importance of regional coordination and capacity[1]building, noting that many West Asian countries have already implemented HCFC Phase-out Management Plans (HPMPs). These plans include regulatory updates, training for customs officers and technicians, and financial assistance for industry transitions, he said.

Discussing the implementation challenges of the Kigali Amendment, Klaly emphasised the need for integrating climate change policies, energy efficiency measures and safety standards due to the hazardous nature of many HFC alternatives. He said, “We need to ensure that proposed alternatives are suitable for our region, especially considering our high[1]temperature conditions.”

Klaly concluded his address with a call to action for the remaining countries to ratify the amendment and join the global effort to mitigate climate change.

Following Klaly’s address, Lattner led a panel discussion involving Ajay Katyal, Strategic Marketing Leader-Advanced Materials, Honeywell; Imran Master, Senior Manager, Product Management, Rheem MEA; Cavalet; Maaz Irfan, Senior Product Engineer II, Taqeef; and Anuj Malhotra, Senior Marketing Manager (Middle East,Africa), Copeland.

The panellists deliberated on the impact, and implementation challenges, of the Kigali Amendment on the HVACR sector. The discussion kicked off with an invitation for general feedback on a presentation that addressed the industry’s current state and future direction. Irfan expressed optimism about the industry’s progress, noting the concerted efforts by organisations like Eurovent to set and update energy efficiency standards and implement the Kigali Amendment.

Katyal emphasised the importance of learning from past transitions, such as the phase-out of HCFCs. He highlighted the need for a strategic approach to avoid repeating past mistakes. “We are not starting fresh,” he said. “It’s a similar journey. Understanding what worked and what didn’t will be crucial for this transition.” Katyal also pointed out to the necessity of securing reliable sources for new refrigerants, considering the impact on consumers as well as producers.

Cavalet recalled the massive technological changes in Europe driven by legislation, which pressured the industry into substantial investments. He remarked that while the direction is clear, the exact path remains uncertain.

Malhotra raised concerns about the region’s readiness to adopt new regulations swiftly. He noted the fast-approaching deadlines and the potential for significant industry stress if the transition is delayed. “We are sandwiched between three continents with big HVACR markets,” he said, stressing the importance of timing and regulatory clarity.

Master acknowledged the challenges in implementing the Kigali Amendment, but he drew optimism from the industry’s previous experiences and the current level of awareness and engagement. “It’s a journey, not a task that will be completed in two years,” he said, emphasising the importance of a phased approach.

Lattner highlighted the disconnect between the desire for regulatory changes and the lack of implementation frameworks. Master responded by stressing the inevitability of enforced recovery and recycling measures due to reduced refrigerant supply. Katyal added that while an idealistic approach to reclaiming refrigerants is challenging, it is necessary to start implementing practical steps to move forward. Cavalet suggested that end-user controls and technician certification could enhance compliance and awareness. “A system of controls and fines might be complex but necessary,” he said.

Members of the audience voiced concerns about relying on end[1]user awareness and suggested that manufacturers should lead the transition. One of them pointed out that while developers are moving towards sustainable practices, manufacturers need to initiate changes proactively.

The panellists agreed that a coordinated effort involving policy makers, industry players and certification bodies is essential for a smooth transition. “The direction has to come from the policymakers,” Malhotra said, underscoring the need for regulatory guidance to drive industry compliance.

The panel discussion concluded with a consensus that while the Kigali Amendment presents significant challenges, a collaborative and informed approach can facilitate a successful transition. The industry must leverage past experiences, enhance regulatory frameworks and ensure stakeholder engagement to navigate the complexities ahead.

Lattner, then making a presentation, highlighted Eurovent Middle East’s educational initiative – the HVCR Leadership Academy. Established in October 2023, the Academy addresses a critical industry gap – the lack of skilled professionals, Lattner said. He emphasised the importance of this initiative, noting that over the past eight years, a recurring complaint from industry stakeholders has been the insufficient knowledge and skills in the market.

The Academy’s offerings are divided into two primary streams – knowledge development for consulting and branding engineers, and technical training for HVACR technicians, Lattner said. The initial courses have already seen significant engagement, with 160 participants enrolled in the first annual unit course programme, of which 18 completed all requirements and received certification, he added.

Lattner announced the introduction of a comprehensive IAQ management programme, set to launch in September. The programme, he said, would span three levels – IAQ Supervisor, IAQ Manager and IAQ Specialist – catering to varying levels of expertise and focusing on the measurement, management and improvement of IAQ.

Nerissa Deoraj, Executive Director, Eurovent Middle East, joined Lattner on stage to discuss market intelligence, a vital component for the industry’s growth. She outlined the methodology for data collection and the types of reports generated. The reports, she said, provide critical insights into market size, sales volumes, energy efficiency of products and overall market trends.

She said that by participating, manufacturers receive detailed market analyses, identify new business opportunities and gain a clearer understanding of their market position relative to competitors. She added that these insights help in navigating regulatory landscapes, ensuring compliance with standards such as the EU’s eco-design regulations.

Lattner and Deoraj highlighted the long-term benefits of the initiatives. On the market intelligence front, the data collected will aid in strategic decision[1]making and policy advocacy, Lattner said. He added that by presenting accurate market data, Eurovent Middle East can engage with governments more effectively, and advocate for policies that enhance industry standards and sustainability.

In a subsequent panel discussion – on ventilation and IAQ, post-pandemic – also moderated by Lattner, data underpinned the interactions. Adam Dhia, General Manager, Systemair; Dani Elamana, Sales and Technical Director, Camfil Middle East; Vilas Bakshi, Regional Director, Aeroseal; Arthur Hechinger, Sales Manager, ebm-Papst ME; and Mohammed Noufal, Key Account Manager, Regal Rexnord were the panellists.

Bakshi said that minimal long-term changes are obvious, post-pandemic, noting that discussions on air quality and contamination have not significantly increased. Protocols for duct cleaning are generally absent, except in some hospitals, he said.

Elamana highlighted that COVID-19 has at least initiated conversations about IAQ, which was previously neglected. Indoor air pollution is significantly higher than outdoor air, and while momentum for improved IAQ is growing, substantial changes have yet to be seen, he said, resonating Bakshi’s observation. “Indoor air is more polluted than outdoor air,” he said. “It’s 2-5 times, but we are not affected. That’s why we take it for granted.”

Dhia reported a spike in demand for ventilation and filtration systems, globally, particularly in New York, but noted no significant local changes. Awareness is increasing, but actual implementation lags behind, he said.

Noufal indicated that while there was a temporary increase in focus on dedicated ventilation units during the pandemic, interest has since waned, returning to pre-pandemic norms.

Hechinger discussed the influence of EC fans on energy efficiency, noting that while Europe has mature regulations driving interest in EC technology, the Middle East is gradually catching up, particularly in Saudi Arabia, where EC fans are becoming more prevalent in new projects. Noufal confirmed that Saudi Arabia mandates IE3 motors, enhancing energy efficiency in large projects.

The panellists agreed on the need for stronger regulations similar to those in Europe to promote energy-efficient ventilation systems in the Middle East. Hechinger and Dhia said that European regulations, such as the ERP directive, have driven substantial energy savings and could serve as a model for the Middle East. Hechinger said, “European regulations have driven the global market trend in energy efficiency, and we hope to follow these specific regulations in the Middle East.”

Bakshi pointed out that most duct[1]sealing jobs are still only performed in need to solve immediate problems rather than for the purpose of maintaining IAQ and saving energy in the long term. The potential energy savings from reduced duct leakage are significant, with payback periods ranging from one to two years, he pointed out.

Lattner emphasised the need for the industry to raise awareness about the importance of ventilation in reducing energy consumption and carbon emissions. He suggested focusing on comprehensive solutions that consider ventilation and chiller efficiency.

The panellists engaged in a lively interaction with members of the audience. One of them, addressing the panellists, in general, highlighted a growing interest in IAQ-related studies. “I was really surprised to hear from everyone on the panel this negative feedback about Indoor Air Quality,” he said. “You mentioned that you are selling units and solutions, but it seems no one is, or very few are, buying these solutions. However, we’ve done a number of Indoor Air Quality studies, and we see there is a growing interest. Maybe there is a growing interest in understanding the importance of Indoor Air Quality and in finding out or measuring Indoor Air Quality. Maybe we haven’t yet reached the part where people say they need a solution, and then your companies will come in.”

Responding to this, Elamana said: “There is a discussion going on every day to improve Indoor Air Quality, but no tangible actions are being taken.” He pointed out the gap between discussions on standards, such as ISO 16890, and their implementation, particularly post-COVID. He added: “Even post-COVID, no consultants are specifying these filters for better efficiency and standards. So, there is discussion, but no definite actions are being taken.”

Weighing in, Dhia stressed the need to translate awareness into action. He emphasised the importance of demonstrating the significance of IAQ, especially in light of recent events, and called for top[1]down initiatives to drive change.

Bakshi highlighted the critical role of duct cleaning in improving IAQ, pointing out a lack of awareness and protocols among building owners. Lattner reinforced the need for practical solutions, announcing the development of an IAQ management course that includes protocols like duct cleaning. He concluded the panel discussion, emphasising the significance of ventilation, and of system transitions for sustainability. He encouraged an industry culture of continued engagement.