28 November 2024
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Daikin will launch a new VRV air conditioning range using R744 (CO₂) refrigerant in the UK and European markets in April next year.
The manufacturer says the move reflects its drive to be at the forefront of developing solutions to lower the carbon footprint of its systems, anticipating and supporting legislation.
While pointing out that R744 has many benefits, including classification as non-flammable (A1) and a GWP value of 1, Daikin adds that its R32 VRV5 range is likely to remain the best solution for most commercial and industrial applications for the foreseeable future.
Steve Molloy, Daikin’s Sustainability & Commercial Solutions Manager, said: “We know that there is growing demand for CO₂ refrigerant in the UK. Our new range of products will help to meet this and clearly shows how Daikin is leading this evolving market. At this stage in its development, R744 is not going to be suitable for every application and we will continue to offer our full range of R32 solutions.
“Launching R744 products at an early stage will give the sectors’ early adopters access to a cutting edge product. At the same time it will build our expertise and help us develop a wider range of market-leading CO₂ products in the future.
"Decarbonising the building sector requires flexible refrigerant options due to varying application challenges. There is no one-size-fits-all solution. Daikin's strategy is to select the best refrigerant for each application, balancing four key factors: safety, energy efficiency, environmental impact, and cost over the entire life cycle of a product. Daikin's introduction of the first CO₂ VRV unit, in addition to our VRV R32 range, reaffirms our commitment to the decarbonisation of commercial buildings.
“Adding CO₂ to Daikin’s broad portfolio of VRV solutions diversifies the choices on the market and lays the foundation for further developments. It is tailored for targeted decarbonisation initiatives such as supermarkets and retail establishments, focusing on heating and cooling systems that necessitate the use of natural refrigerants.
"We are committed to developing VRV systems that offer the flexibility of choice for any type of commercial building, keeping a clear focus on energy efficiency, GWP, legislation and building trends. This CO₂ VRV innovation is the next step towards offering solutions with a lower climate impact over their entire lifetime.”
Daikin says it will shortly start to educate and train its network to support the adoption of the new technology for specific relevant projects.
