In February 2025, GIZ Proklima trained 70 refrigeration and air conditioning (RAC) technicians from the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC). The training was conducted under the HCFC Phase-out Management Plan (HPMP) Stage II in India. It focused on "Good Service Practices and Installation of Room Air conditioners with HCFC-22 and Flammable Refrigerants (R-290)." DMRC technicians gained valuable expertise in better RAC servicing techniques and effective measures on leakage prevention of refrigerants during servicing, installation and repair activities.
GIZ Proklima India, in cooperation with the Ozone cell, Ministry of Environment Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC), Government of India, implemented and concluded three RAC technicians trainings in February 2025 as part of the HCFC Phase-out Management Plan Stage II (HPMP II). Held at the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) Training Academy in New Delhi, from February 17 to 22, 2025, the programme trained 70 RAC technicians in three batches. The trainings were conducted by Keypath India Pvt Ltd..
Hands-on Training in Eco-Friendly Refrigerants and Air Conditioning Systems
The trainings commenced with a session on the ozone layer, its importance, and how harmful refrigerants damage the environment. Participants also learnt the basics of air conditioning systems and got introduced to eco-friendly refrigerant alternatives. The core of the training covered “Good Service Practices” for both flammable and non-flammable refrigerants used in room Air conditioners. Technicians received hands-on lessons on using equipment, tools and appliances; copper tube processing; brazing techniques; handling refrigerant recovery amongst other practical sessions. By the end of the first day, they practiced installing split air conditioners with R-290 refrigerant. The second day combined theory and practical work. It covered energy-efficient service techniques, the importance of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and details about the certification process for field technicians. The hands-on activities involved group work, where technicians practiced proper installation methods for air conditioners using both flammable and non-flammable refrigerants. Each session ended with a workshop where participants shared their experiences, discussed challenges, and revisited the key takeaways from the training. This interactive approach allowed the RAC service technicians of Delhi Metro to learn from each other while reinforcing the training’s main lessons. All three sessions were a success, leaving both technicians and DMRC officials feel more aware of the importance of proper servicing practices and handling refrigerants responsibly. This initiative not only upgraded the skills of RAC technicians but also set the stage for future collaborations to promote sustainable and eco-friendly air-conditioning practices across India.
