How does the new Royal Decree on carbon footprint affect the air conditioning sector?

On April 2, Royal Decree 214/2025 was published, a landmark regulation for Spain's climate policies. This new legislation requires large companies to calculate, reduce, and offset their carbon footprint, a measure that directly impacts multiple sectors, including air conditioning.

What does the new Royal Decree require?

This Royal Decree on the carbon footprint aims to establish a unified regulations for the accounting, reduction, and offsetting of greenhouse gas emissions. From now on, large companies are required to:

• Register their carbon footprint in the MITERD (Ministry of Environment and Development) National Registry.

• Develop reduction plans with measurable short- and medium-term goals.

• Offset residual emissions through approved projects.

What does this have to do with air conditioning?

Air conditioning represents a significant portion of the energy consumption of commercial and industrial buildings. With the entry into force of Royal Decree 214/2025, companies in the sector must:

• Assess the environmental impact of their HVAC systems: Analyze energy consumption and emissions associated with air conditioning.

• Implement more efficient technologies: Adopt solutions such as aerothermal energy or intelligent control systems to optimize energy use.

• Perform preventive and predictive maintenance: Ensure proper operation of equipment to avoid unnecessary consumption.

• Train technical staff: Train teams in sustainable practices and compliance with the new regulations.

With this new law, all companies that manage multiple points of sale, offices, or logistics centers are required to make sustainable decisions regarding air conditioning systems and thermal installations.

What solutions does the sector offer? A step forward towards decarbonization

Air conditioning can be an ally of sustainability if managed strategically. At SCI, we help you adapt your facilities to this new reality with:

• Highly energy-efficient air conditioning systems.

• Technical audits and energy improvement plans.

• Preventive maintenance adapted to new legal requirements.

• Advice on choosing refrigerants with low global warming potential (GWP).

The approval of this decree not only represents a legal obligation, but also a real opportunity for companies to move toward climate neutrality. Modernizing your air conditioning systems will not only reduce your emissions but can also translate into energy savings, improvements in comfort, and corporate reputation.

Ready to comply with regulations and reduce your environmental impact?

At SCI, we are your strategic partner in efficient and sustainable air conditioning. We support you throughout the entire process of adapting to the new requirements of Royal Decree 214/2025.