AREA, the European association of refrigeration, air conditioning and heat pump (RACHP) contractors, has published its position on the forthcoming EU Heating and Cooling Strategy, calling for stronger support for energy grid infrastructure, skilled workforce development, and fairer access to funding to ensure an effective transition toward sustainable heating and cooling solutions.
The association emphasizes that decarbonising the sector requires addressing energy security as a foundational priority. AREA warns that high energy costs and inadequate infrastructure could hinder the deployment of energy-efficient technologies such as heat pumps, geothermal systems, and waste heat recovery. It recommends empowering EU Member States to define optimal energy mixes and strengthening the electric grid in coordination with the Electrification Action Plan and the European Grids Strategy.
To ensure grid resilience, AREA calls for digital integration and smart grid upgrades that can support increased electrification while coping with demand fluctuations caused by climate change. It also advocates for wider adoption of district heating and air conditioning systems, especially in underserved southern European regions.
Recognizing the central role of RACHP technicians, AREA highlights the shortage of skilled professionals as a major barrier. According to its 2024 survey, an additional 150,000 technicians are needed to meet the REPowerEU goal of 10 million new heat pump installations by 2027. That number could reach 300,000 to meet 2030 targets. AREA stresses the need for targeted EU support, including harmonised training and certification schemes, and improved incentives for installer training, upskilling, and retention.
AREA also points to regulatory complexity, high upfront costs, and funding inaccessibility as obstacles to clean energy deployment. It urges streamlined funding procedures, fairer electricity pricing, and support for new business models to encourage investment in green technologies.
“AREA stresses that energy security and grid reliability are essential prerequisites for accelerating the decarbonisation and sustainability of heating and cooling,” the association concluded.
