Susana Rodríguez (AEFYT): Refrigeration sector faces major challenges in 2026

What is your assessment of the refrigeration industry and refrigeration technologies in 2025?

2025 was a year marked by moderate stability in activity, together with significant progress in the professionalisation and modernisation of the sector. As an association, we have seen greater investment in energy efficiency and safer and more sustainable technologies; a continuity in the retrofitting of facilities, driven by regulatory requirements and the need to reduce consumption. We have also seen growing interest in digitalisation, with monitoring systems, predictive maintenance and intelligent control; and a growing concern for attracting and retaining technical talent, which remains one of the main structural challenges. Overall, 2025 has been a year of consolidation and preparation for major changes to come. 

What changes and challenges does the sector face in 2026?

Looking to 2026, our industry faces strategic challenges such as adapting to new European regulations on refrigerants and efficiency, which will require investment and updated knowledge. We must accelerate digitalisation, which will be key to improving competitiveness, maintenance, safety and emissions reduction. There is also a shortage of qualified professionals, which can be the most limiting factor for the growth of many companies. The drive for sustainability continues apace, both in low GWP refrigerants and in the design of more efficient and circular installations. And there is also a need to modernise the sector's KPIs, integrating quality, efficiency, safety and digitalisation metrics, something that AEFYT is actively working on.

Specifically, what issues remain to be addressed in terms of training and sustainability?

There are still important tasks we must tackle as a sector. These include updated technical training that integrates new technologies, new refrigerants and digital skills; the certification and recertification of professionals, guaranteeing safe and quality practice; specialisation programmes that help to professionalise the sector and attract young talent; greater coordination with educational centres, to adapt the training offer to companies' real needs. And  then we need to continue to drive sustainability, with incentive that allow us to accelerate the energy transition.

What legislative issues do you see as the most important for the current year?

The monitoring of the implementation of the new F-gas Regulation and its impact on existing installations; the need for clear and homogeneous regulatory frameworks that make it easier for companies to plan investments; incentives for the replacement of old installations for more efficient ones; regulations that promote safety and the responsible use of refrigerants; the aggressive pursuit of the illegal gas trade in Spain on the part of authorities, active surveillance; and the importance of considering the refrigeration sector as part of strategic infrastructure, due to its role in industry, health, food and logistics.

What are the main areas of focus of the association's activities?

Here at AEFYT we are bringing to the table a new strategic plan focused on the professionalisation of the sector; digitalisation and new KPIs; improving the visibility of industrial and commercial refrigeration as an essential sector; promoting technical and female talent; and closer collaboration with public administrations and related associations. We believe that 2026 will be a decisive year to position the sector as a driver of efficiency, sustainability and innovation.