GSA Updates Federal Building Standards with Focus on Clean Energy
The US General Services Administration has updated its P100 building standards for over 300,000 federal facilities, mandating the use of clean energy and establishing new benchmarks for operational efficiency and carbon reduction.
UK and EU Establish Net-Zero HVAC as the 2026 Building Baseline
New 2026 building regulations across the UK and EU mandate that HVAC systems transition from minimum efficiency compliance to active contribution in national decarbonisation strategies.
HUD and USDA Rescind 2021 IECC Energy Code Mandate
The US Department of Housing and Urban Development and the Department of Agriculture have rescinded the requirement for the 2021 IECC and ASHRAE 90.1-2019 as minimum energy-efficiency standards for certain housing programs, aimed at improving affordability.
Summer 2026 Forecast Signals Busy Stretch for HVAC Contractors
An El Niño system in the Pacific is expected to bring above-normal summer temperatures to approximately three-quarters of the United States, driving high demand for cooling systems and technician services.
EPA Lifts 2026 Prohibition on R-410A Residential AC Installations
The US EPA has issued a final rule formally lifting the January 1, 2026, prohibition on the installation of residential and light commercial R-410A air conditioning systems, providing temporary regulatory relief for the industry.
Final Reminder: RPEQ Registration Renewal Due Today
HVAC&R engineering practitioners in Queensland must ensure their RPEQ registration is renewed by May 31, 2026, to maintain legal compliance and technical authority.
Five Heat Pump Leaders Receive Top International Award
Graeme Maidment (LSBU) and Thomas Nowak (Qvantum) are among the recipients of the Peter Ritter von Rittinger Award, recognizing outstanding contributions to global heat pump development.
Five Arrested in F-Gas Smuggling Sweep in Greece
Authorities in Greece arrested five members of a criminal organization for illegally importing and trafficking large quantities of HFC refrigerants from Albania, highlighting increased enforcement of F-gas regulations.
Beijer Ref Expands US Footprint with AM Distributors Acquisition
Swedish wholesaler Beijer Ref has acquired Florida-based AM Distributors, marking a significant strategic expansion into the US refrigeration and air conditioning market.