BITZER Hosts Third IRN Conference with IIAR Keynote on Natural Refrigerant Developments

The Industrial Refrigeration Network Conference (IRN) 2026, held on 10–11 June at the SCHAUFLER Academy in Rottenburg-Ergenzingen, placed natural refrigerants at the centre of its programme under the motto "Driving Natural Innovation." BITZER, a specialist in refrigeration, air conditioning, and heat pump technology, hosted the independent conference for the third time at its international training and education centre.

Keynote and technical programme

The keynote was delivered by Yesenia Rector, Vice President of the International Institute of All-Natural Refrigeration (IIAR), who outlined international developments relating to natural refrigerants and their importance for modern industrial refrigeration and heat pump technology. She explained how natural refrigerants have evolved alongside technological and regulatory requirements to enable reliable, efficient, and safe use on a large scale, highlighting new opportunities for contractors and planners.

Beyond the IIAR keynote, the programme featured technical discussions, case studies on industrial refrigeration and heat pump technology, and sponsor presentations addressing current and future industry requirements.

Industry exchange

Bernhard Blaeser, Head of Industrial Refrigeration at BITZER, noted that the Tech Talks by the sponsors provided valuable impulses for professional exchange on how the uses of natural refrigerants are continuing to evolve in Europe and the opportunities this creates. He added that the IRN was launched precisely to discuss developments, innovations, experience, and practical applications within the industry, and thanked the IIAR and all other speakers for the technical exchange.

About the IRN

Launched in 2024, the IRN brings together manufacturers, contractors, planners, users, researchers, students, and representatives of industry associations for technical exchange on industrial refrigeration in Europe. More than 100 participants from 19 countries attended the 2026 edition.