How to Become a GreenChill Certified Store

Certifying a Store: Step-by-step Process

Any food retail store in the United States, whether the store is in the design phase, newly constructed, fully operational, or being remodeled, can apply for GreenChill Store Certification. To apply for certification, a store must complete a short application about the type of refrigerants used in the store, refrigerant emissions, and refrigerant charge. There are separate forms for fully operational stores and newly constructed stores. In addition, all newly constructed stores using hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) or hydrofluoroolefin (HFO) blends must be leak tested at installation according to the standards in GreenChill’s Installation Leak Tightness Guidelines. Once a store has submitted the appropriate form, EPA will review the information and confer certification, if warranted. GreenChill Certification is valid for one year. After one year, stores must reapply to retain GreenChill Certification. The process is quick and easy, and there is no fee to certify a store.

Below is a summary of the steps to submit a certification application.

Step 1: Select the Appropriate Application Form

There are three types of application forms depending on when the store opened and whether the store has been previously certified.

Newly Constructed Stores: Stores that are not yet operational, or have been operational for less than 6 months, are classified as “Newly Constructed.” These stores should complete the form for “Newly Constructed Stores” and complete and sign an Installation Leak Tightness Testing Verification Form.

Stores that have been operational for 6-12 months are also classified as “Newly Constructed.” These stores should complete the form for “Newly Constructed Stores” and complete and sign an Installation Leak Tightness Testing Verification Form, as well as provide supporting documentation for emissions starting the date the store opened.

Operational Stores: Stores that have been in operation for at least 12 months are classified as “Operational.” These stores should complete the form for “Operational Stores.”

GreenChill Certification Form: Operational Stores (Microsoft Word Document)

Recertifications: Stores that have previously been certified but require a renewal are classified as “Recertifications.” These stores should complete the “Recertification Form.” Supporting documentation for annual emissions is required for all stores looking to recertify.

GreenChill Recertification Form (Microsoft Word Document)

Remodeled Stores: If the store has been remodeled or retrofitted, please contact Kirsten Cappel at (202) 343-9556 or GreenChill@epa.gov to determine which application materials are required.

Step 2: Complete the Application Form

For helpful guidance on completing the application, please refer to the materials listed below.

Step 3: Submit your Application.

The application and all required attachments should be emailed to GreenChill@epa.gov.

Step 4: Await Notification from EPA.

Once your application is received, EPA will send an email confirming receipt* and will immediately begin the review process. Please let us know if receipt of our decision is time sensitive and we will do everything we can to adhere to your needs. After a decision is made, EPA will notify you via email. Please note, GreenChill reserves the right to deny store certification based on a company's Clean Air Act Title VI enforcement issues.

*If you do not receive an email confirming receipt within two weeks, please notify EPA by emailing GreenChill@epa.gov.

Step 5: Store Certificate and Plaque

If your store achieves certification, you will receive a Platinum-, Gold-, or Silver- Level Certificate from EPA, along with press release guidance and an order form for a plaque. You may purchase as many plaques as you wish. Note: When referring to any EPA GreenChill Store Certification award, please include the year in which the award was received.