)
Why we have rediscovered CO₂ as a refrigerant – and what it means for our future
CO₂mpass: The innovative air handling technology using CO₂ as a refrigerant
Innovations
A resource with a future
Climate change presents significant challenges across the globe. To meet our climate targets, we need to rethink our approach in almost every sector – including ventilation and air conditioning. While the focus often lies on energy efficiency, one crucial aspect is frequently overlooked: the refrigerant itself. And this component, in particular, holds great potential for enhanced sustainability – especially when using CO₂.
)
A proven substance – reimagined
CO₂ – also known as R-744 – is by no means a new discovery. Over a century ago, it was already in use as a refrigerant. However, with the rise of synthetic alternatives, it faded into the background. These so-called F-gases offered easy handling, but turned out to be highly problematic in terms of climate impact: many of them have a global warming potential (GWP) in the thousands – meaning they are vastly more harmful to the climate than CO₂ itself when released into the atmosphere.
Today, in the context of climate protection and resource conservation, CO₂ is regaining attention as a natural refrigerant – and with good reason.
“Sometimes innovation is not about creating something new – but about having the courage to rethink what already works.
)
Climate-friendly, safe and efficient
R-744 in its technical purity impresses both ecologically and technically. With a GWP of 1, it serves as the baseline for comparing the climate impact of other refrigerants – and poses no additional climate risk compared to naturally occurring CO₂. In contrast, many synthetic refrigerants have four-digit GWP values and significantly contribute to global warming in the event of leaks.
But CO₂ doesn’t only offer ecological benefits – it also excels technically. Its high efficiency is particularly noteworthy: depending on system design, a COP (coefficient of performance) of up to 7 can be achieved. In other words: for every kilowatt-hour of electricity used, the system can deliver up to seven kilowatt-hours of heating energy.
Moreover, CO₂’s outstanding thermodynamic properties make it ideal for heat recovery systems – especially in applications with demanding temperature and humidity requirements, such as swimming pools or complex building infrastructures.
Technology with vision
With the development of our CO₂mpass technology, we’ve taken CO₂ as a refrigerant to the next level. This solution combines climate friendliness, operational reliability, and efficiency in a single system – enabling sustainable air handling in demanding environments, without compromising on comfort or performance.
And the name represents more than just the refrigerant itself – it embodies our mindset: CO₂mpass is our compass, guiding the way towards a more sustainable future in HVAC technology.
)
Sustainability starts here
Choosing a natural refrigerant like CO₂ is more than just a technical decision – it is a clear commitment to responsibility. In a field that often operates behind the scenes, there is a powerful lever for reducing CO₂ emissions. At Menerga, we actively contribute to the decarbonisation of the building sector through the targeted use of environmentally friendly technologies.
Because sustainable progress starts in the details – and with the right decisions.
)
Learn more about CO₂mpass
CO₂mpass stands for efficient, safe and climate-friendly air handling using a natural refrigerant. Discover how we are rethinking CO₂ – and what it means for the future.
)
Explore more sustainable solutions
From energy-efficient system operation to the avoidance of PFAS: we rely on smart concepts for a greener future. Discover more of Menerga’s sustainability-driven initiatives.