AHRI assembles HVACR manufacturers for regional issues discussion

The Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI) welcomed 25 C-level executives and representatives from prominent regional and international HVACR companies to an exclusive gathering on 10th October. A first for AHRI and the industry in the region, the meeting topics ranged from the latest global and regional developments, regulatory and other concerns, collaborating toward promoting a sustainable and efficient built environment, the industry’s pivotal role in COP28, and its involvement in the Net Zero Middle East initiative.

Attendees emphasized the importance of achieving regulatory certainty in the ever-evolving landscape, and AHRI explained how its certification and standards programs help create a level playing field for manufacturers and support increasing government energy efficiency requirements. In fact, the association has established the AHRI Standards Subcommittee and the AHRI Technical Committee, comprised of regional experts, to establish standards tailored to its requirements. AHRI will also submit white papers with members’ input to COP28, with its programs seen as a key to achieving energy efficiency in the built environment and addressing climate-related challenges. 

Executives in attendance expressed their commitment to leading the journey toward net-zero emissions in the region. Also prominent in the agenda was the transition to alternative refrigerants – a topic of great importance to the Middle East, where suitable alternatives can be difficult to source. 

AHRI President and CEO Stephen Yurek, who attended the event, said, “Today’s meeting is a testament to the commitment of our industry’s leaders to address our challenges together, with one strong industry voice. AHRI, with our team of experts in the Middle East, is here to serve its members and all industry stakeholders while working toward attaining energy efficiency in the MENA region.” 

As the emerging voice of the industry in the MENA region, AHRI looks forward to continued collaboration with industry stakeholders and will hold this meeting regularly to help address increasing regulatory requirements and demand for AHRI standards and certification programs.