How energy-efficient are HCs?
Hydrocarbons are more energy-efficient than most conventional HFC or CFC systems. Used in residential air conditioning units, hydrocarbons have reported to be in the range of 20-30% more efficient that synthetic refrigerants. A CO2-propane cascade supermarket system can save around 5% of energy, compared to an equivalent R404a system. In Mobile Air Conditioning, studies hint at a 35% higher energy efficiency than HFC-based MAC. Field tests with large A/C chillers have shown that all energy efficiency measures combined can result in a potential energy savings in excess of 50% for chillers that operate year round when compared to minimum first cost chillers without energy saving features.
