Next Generation Refrigerants Workshop

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Next-Generation Refrigerants

April 8th and 9th, 2026

Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) will host the Next-Generation Refrigerants Workshop, April 8-9, 2026, bringing together industry leaders, researchers, and policy experts to identify critical research needs to overcome safety and affordability barriers for next-generation refrigerants used in heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC).

Participants will examine solutions to flammability risks, refrigerant charge limits, and supply-chain challenges while aligning with evolving U.S. and global policies. Through interactive breakout sessions, expert panels, and ORNL laboratory tours, the event will foster collaboration and help accelerate innovations that enhance U.S. competitiveness.

Workshop Objectives

-Strengthen connections and collaborations to focus research activities and accelerate near- and long-term solutions that position U.S.-based OEMs for global competitiveness.

-Identify key research needs to address safety, implementation, and cost barriers for next-generation refrigerants in HVAC systems.

-Provide technical feedback on refrigerant charge limits and develop strategies to minimize flammability risks associated with emerging refrigerants.

-Discuss supply-chain and transition challenges, including production capacity, distribution, and long-term availability.