DNV Selected as Contractor for CARB's $65 million F-Gas Reduction Program in California

North American Sustainable Refrigeration Council (NASRC) appointed renowned independent energy expert and assurance provider DNV as a contractor to facilitate the California Air Resources Board’s (CARB) Fluorinated Gas (F-gas) Reduction Incentive Program (FRIP). 

This initiative, supported by a US $65 million budget, targets the mitigation of F-gas emissions, notorious contributors to global warming and climate pollution.

F-gases, commonly employed as refrigerants, possess a significantly higher global warming potential than CO2, making their reduction imperative in combating climate change. 

The FRIP, financed partly through California Climate Investments, focuses on promoting ultra-low global warming potential (GWP) refrigerant technologies to supplant F-gases. 

Small and independent enterprises catering to low-income, disadvantaged, and rural communities will receive funding prioritisation. 

NASRC, a leading authority on ultra-low-GWP refrigerant technologies in the United States, secured the role of third-party administrator for the program through a competitive selection process. 

Pioneering efforts to combat climate change 

Key program administration includes developing funding guidelines to align with CARB's objectives, conducting widespread outreach and education initiatives, and providing project support for grantees to ensure the successful implementation of innovative technologies.

Meanwhile, DNV's responsibilities primarily revolve around outreach and education, leveraging its decades-long experience in utility program design and NASRC's market insights.

Richard S. Barnes, DNV's region president for Energy Systems in North America, emphasized the significance of refrigeration technologies in emissions reduction, stating “Refrigeration technologies are often overlooked as an opportunity to reduce GHG emissions, but transforming the market is an effective means to do so.”

In addition to outreach efforts, DNV will spearhead the tracking and reporting of program progress and performance. Introducing ANB System’s eTRACK+ process automation system, DNV aims to enhance efficiency and accuracy in data management, providing CARB with a reliable audit trail to ensure program efficacy and accountability.

With a longstanding presence in California, DNV has been instrumental in facilitating the energy transition, collaborating with utilities, state agencies, and businesses to drive sustainable initiatives. 

From facilitating renewable energy acquisitions to managing utility energy programs, DNV's contributions have significantly advanced environmental sustainability and carbon reduction efforts in the region.