Javier González (Daikin): C&R allows us to drive solutions aligned with current challenges

What aspects are acting as catalysts in the transformation of the HVAC and refrigeration sector, and what role does Daikin play in this process?

The sector is undergoing a profound transformation driven by decarbonisation and the evolution of European regulations. One of the most significant aspects is the transition towards refrigerants with a lower Global Warming Potential (GWP), spurred on by the updated F-Gas Regulation. This shift is speeding up the adoption of new technologies and forcing manufacturers, distributors and installers to adapt to a new technical and regulatory landscape.

Here at Daikin, for many years now we have been driving forward the development of solutions that incorporate refrigerants with a lower environmental impact, such as R-32. These solutions are capable of significantly reducing those emissions associated with air-conditioning, whilst improving the efficiency of the systems. Against the current backdrop of transition, a multi-refrigerant strategy is key, not only to anticipate and meet regulatory requirements, but also in order to afford maximum flexibility and adaptability to each application.

Concurrently, the sector will continue to evolve towards technologies that facilitate the adoption of ultra-low GWP refrigerants and other innovative alternatives, making a decisive contribution to European decarbonisation targets and a more sustainable energy model.

In this context, our commitment is to keep driving technological innovation to improve efficiency, reduce environmental impact and, ultimately, enhance people's quality of life, supporting the sector through a pivotal period of transformation. 

What key areas of action has Daikin set out to further drive forward the sector's evolution?

Here at Daikin, we work towards driving the sector forward through technological innovation and the development of solutions that enable progress towards more efficient and sustainable buildings. Our commitment to heat pump technologies, such as air-to-water systems, has enabled us to establish ourselves as a leading driver of HVAC electrification - a key pathway to advancing decarbonisation and cutting energy consumption compared to traditional systems. At the same time, we have spent years leading the transition towards refrigerants with a lower Global Warming Potential, developing solutions that combine energy efficiency with sustainability.

Another of our core focus areas is training. Through the Daikin Institute and various technical training programmes, we collaborate with installers, distributors, and engineering firms to facilitate the adoption of new technologies - such as air-to-water heat pumps - and to meet the demands of an ever-evolving market. 

What specific solutions does the company offer across the residential, commercial and industrial sectors?

We offer a comprehensive portfolio that spans residential, commercial, industrial, and service applications. In the residential segment, one of our flagship ranges is Daikin Altherma - an air-to-water heat pump solution that integrates heating, cooling, and domestic hot water into a single system. It has established itself as one of the most highly rated choices for both new works and energy retrofits. Our Daikin Emura and Perfera air-conditioning ranges also stand out. Designed to offer high levels of comfort, efficiency, and indoor air quality, they combine advanced technology with refined design to meet the modern demands of the residential market. These proposals are complemented by our heat pump solutions for domestic hot water production in centralised residential installations.

We also provide a wide range of solutions In the commercial and industrial sectors. Key highlights include our VRV systems - a technology we pioneered and continue to lead - which have established themselves as the benchmark for offices, hotels, educational institutions, and commercial buildings. Furthermore, we offer a complete portfolio of state-of-the-art heat pumps and chillers for large-scale installations, as well as dedicated solutions for data centres, where reliability, operational continuity, and energy efficiency are critical requirements.

Our product and solution portfolio forms part of a service strategy designed to cover the entire life cycle, from initial system design through to modernisation or replacement. This comprehensive approach enables us to ensure optimum performance, minimise downtime and deliver continuous value over time, supporting our clients at every stage of their projects. With this in mind, we offer a complete ecosystem of services that includes, inter alia, technical support, engineering and execution assistance, advanced maintenance and specialised training programmes for industry professionals. 

What does participating in the International Air-Conditioning and Refrigeration Exhibition (C&R), organised by IFEMA MADRID, mean for Daikin?

C&R is the key meeting place for HVAC and refrigeration professionals in Spain, making our presence there of great strategic value to the company. Trade fairs like this allow us to gain first-hand insight into market needs, share expertise with other industry players, and continue driving forward solutions aligned with current challenges.

The trade fair also affords an opportunity to showcase our latest innovations and enables us to exchange knowledge with installers, distributors, engineering firms, and other professionals, strengthening collaboration across all industry stakeholders. Above all, against a backdrop of major regulatory and technological shifts, events like C&R are particularly valuable for anticipating trends and continuing to support our clients and partners through the transformation the sector is undergoing at present.