Something strange happened to me on July 1.
I suspect my experience was shared by others in the refrigeration and air conditioning sector.
I had this creepy sensation known as De Ja Vu.
However, when I tried to pinpoint the source of my supernatural unease I realised that there was nothing magical or cryptic going on at all.
I mean what’s enchanting or mystical about the start of another financial year?
But then the significance of the date hit me and I realised I had every right to be apprehensive.
Think about it. Remember this time last year when industry was dealing with the fallout from the HFC levy?
Then it happens all over again. A year later and here we are dealing with the uncertainty surrounding carbon pricing. Will it stay or will it go?
It's almost an annual industry tradition dealing with the dilemmas of government.
So if you think you are suffering from a little De Ja Vu, you’re not.
Forget about the romantic, french language-inspired description I am applying to this feeling because the reality is that you are simply being ignored.
This is what it feels like when an industry is overlooked and policy is created without industry input.
When it comes to HVAC&R I was beginning to think that is the way business gets done.
That is, until the Destruction Incentive Program was introduced on July 1, 2013.
This program is an example of the government getting it right. It’s what happens when the government is listening and engaging in real consultation.
The government made the sensible decision to build on the success of the long-standing industry-funded disposal and recovery program managed by Refrigerant Reclaim Australia (RRA).
The new program will actually enhance one of the industry’s great success stories.
It is encouraging when the policy-makers get it right although a few readers wrote in to say they think the “incentive” part of the program could be a little higher.
As one reader said: “An absolute joke! $4.50 per kg. I return 10kg for $45. Today I was offered R22 at $145 per kg plus GST. That’s a total cost of $1,595. Where is the incentive to destroy older refrigerants?”
For those that began July with a sense of creepy unease I can assure you that August will be better (do I even have to say why?). That’s right the CCN Live Conference is only days away.
Speaker profiles begin on page 14 of this month's magazine. Or, go online.
Tickets available via clare@twodeforce.com.au
See you at the conference on Thursday, August 8, 2013.