On February 24, the much-anticipated Real Alternatives: Train-the-Trainers Week commenced at IKKE’s state-of-the-art training center, one of the largest and most advanced RACHP institutes in Europe. Organized in collaboration with ATF and IKKE, this intensive training program brought together expert trainers from several EU Member States, including Croatia, Czech Republic, Ireland, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, and Sweden.
The program focused on the use of low-GWP alternative refrigerants, covering flammable refrigerants, carbon dioxide, and ammonia—core components of the Real Alternatives project. Expert trainers representing national associations are being equipped with a standardized teaching methodology designed to ensure a unified approach to training across Europe. This initiative is crucial in harmonizing alternative refrigerant training, aligning closely with the requirements of the new Implementing Regulation (EU) 2215/2024.
Simultaneously, the Real Alternatives Stakeholder Meeting gathered over 20 associations and training institutes that are key partners in the project. In a year marked by significant changes in certification, this meeting reaffirmed the importance of the Real Alternatives initiative, first launched in 2017 with EU funding. It serves as a ready-to-use national certification framework for the industry. Partners convened in person to review the project’s progress, exchange ideas, and renew their commitment to promoting best practices and consistent training methodologies across Europe.
Looking ahead, 2025 promises to be a pivotal year for the initiative. The nine training modules that form the core of the Real Alternatives project have been updated to reflect the latest legislative changes introduced by the new F-Gas Regulation. In addition, the free-access e-learning platform will be simultaneously updated, and a new dedicated website is set to launch, further expanding the reach and impact of the project.
This week-long training event not only strengthened the competencies of the participating trainers but also reinforced the collective resolve to drive industry innovation and sustainability. By standardizing training and certification processes, Real Alternatives is paving the way for a future where HVAC/R professionals across Europe are better equipped to handle emerging technologies and meet evolving regulatory demands.
For more information on the project, please visit the Real Alternative website.
