CSFS: Natural refrigerants in retail food refrigeration and cold storage
Minnesota Pollution Control Agency funds research-driven upgrades to natural refrigerant systems in retail food and cold storage to cut greenhouse gas emissions.
Funder: Minnesota Pollution Control Agency
Due Dates: May 27, 2027 (rolling until funds are dispersed or this date)
Funding Amounts: ~$5 million available; maximum award $500,000 or $750,000 per applicant depending on applicant type and location; 50% cash match required; project duration up to 13 months.
Summary: Supports Minnesota food retailers, cold storage operators, and food assistance programs in replacing legacy refrigeration systems with natural refrigerants to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Key Information: Applications are first-come, first-served; only systems with >300 lbs refrigerant at one facility are eligible.
Description
This grant from the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) aims to accelerate the replacement of high global warming potential (GWP) refrigeration systems in Minnesota’s retail food, cold storage, and food assistance sectors with systems using natural refrigerants (e.g., carbon dioxide, ammonia, propane). The program is part of Minnesota’s climate smart food systems initiative and is funded by the federal Climate Pollution Reduction Grants program. The goal is to reduce climate pollution from food-related operations by supporting the adoption of sustainable, climate-friendly refrigeration technologies.
