New industry group formed

In a bid to accelerate the adoption of natural refrigerants in Australia, a new industry group has been formally established to work with government and industry stakeholders.

Known as the Australian Refrigeration Association (ARA), the group’s immediate objective is to work with the refrigeration and air conditioning industry on a comprehensive strategy to increase energy efficiency and reduce refrigerant gas emissions in all RAC sectors.

The ARA believes a new voice is necessary to unite the entire industry.

Only then can the HVAC industry develop an integrated strategy to make the move to safe, efficient, sustainable technology and management practices.

According to the ARA’s terms of reference, the group’s scope of interest includes all uses of heat exchange technology including refrigeration, air conditioning, heat pumps,
and cogeneration involving heat exchange.

The non-profit association structure covers founding members, corporate or affiliate membership as well as student, individual and tradesperson members.

Founding membership is only available to organisations that apply prior to December 2013.

ARA president Tim Edwards said the group was formed because there needs to be greater emphasis on refrigeration.

In the HVAC industry, he said the “R” is left out and the pure refrigeration component doesn’t get the representation it needs.

Edwards said there are about 17 different peak bodies in the HVAC industry but they are all aligned by sector such as mining and building.

“This is why a new, integrated group for refrigeration is necessary,” he said.

“Although our industry consumes 22 per cent of Australia’s energy consumption we have low visibility and as an industry that needs to change.”

Details of the ARA were outlined at a recent meeting attended by a dozen peak bodies as well as the federal government.

“It is the first time in 10 years that I have seen everyone in one room working together
it is an important step forward,” he said.