House Republicans voted to overturn energy efficiency standards for commercial refrigerators, a move that could increase greenhouse gas emissions and delay progress on climate goals tied to cooling systems.
Lisa Held reports for Civil Eats.
In short:
- The House of Representatives used the Congressional Review process to roll back energy standards finalized at the end of the Biden administration; the Senate would need to vote next for repeal to take effect.
- Republicans say the rules would raise equipment costs for small businesses, while Democrats argue most products already meet the standards and energy savings would offset higher prices.
- The Department of Energy rule targeted emissions tied to refrigeration, a major source of both energy use and hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) emissions.
Key quote:
“Republicans continue to do the bidding of Big Oil and Gas. This resolution proves that Republicans are completely out of touch.”
— Representative Frank Pallone (D-New Jersey)
Why this matters:
Refrigeration, often overlooked in the climate conversation, is emerging as a major player in global emissions — largely because of the double punch it packs. New regulations under President Trump’s administration have slowed or rolled back efforts to push industry toward newer, cleaner technologies. Efficiency upgrades and low-impact alternatives exist, but delays in adoption can lock in outdated systems for decades.
Related: A city in India offers a glimpse of how to build a cooler, cleaner future
