The heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) sector in Spain demonstrated notable stability in 2024, according to the market and sectoral situation report published by the Association of HVAC Equipment Manufacturers (AFEC). Despite economic and geopolitical challenges, the market has managed to maintain its figures, reflecting the industry’s ability to adapt to new regulatory and sustainability requirements.

Market Evolution

One of the report’s main highlights is the slight variation in the market compared to 2023, with a -0.1% decrease in HVAC equipment sales. This stability is the result of uneven performance across the sector’s different segments:

Heat pumps and residential air conditioning: Sales of residential air conditioning equipment remained steady at 1,380,000 units sold, generating over €850 million in revenue. However, the report notes a 5.5% drop in heat pump sales in Spain—a smaller decline than in other European countries such as Germany (-47.8%) and France (-24%).

Ventilation systems: In the residential sector, sales fell by -1.9% in value, while in the industrial and tertiary sectors the drop was -1.1%. This underlines the need for greater awareness of the importance of these systems for indoor air quality and energy efficiency.

Commercial and industrial HVAC: In contrast to the residential sector, HVAC in commercial and industrial buildings showed a more positive trend, with a slight increase in sales driven by the transition towards more efficient and sustainable systems.

Key Factors and Outlook for 2025

The AFEC report also highlights several factors expected to influence the evolution of the HVAC market in the coming years:

  • Regulatory changes: Significant impact is expected from new European regulations on energy efficiency, emissions reduction, and refrigerant management. AFEC warns of the need for companies in the sector to prepare to adapt to these regulatory changes.

  • Technological innovation: Digitalisation and the development of intelligent HVAC solutions will gain prominence. Technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and advanced control systems will be key to improving equipment efficiency and performance.

  • Sustainability and energy transition: Electrification of the sector and the promotion of renewable energy sources will drive the adoption of heat pumps and other low-environmental-impact HVAC systems. The potential revision of the electric conversion factor could further support the expansion of this equipment in the Spanish market.

Sector Commitment to Energy Efficiency

AFEC and its member companies have reaffirmed their commitment to sustainability and the energy transition. The HVAC industry plays a key role in reducing CO₂ emissions and improving building energy efficiency, and it will continue to promote innovative solutions tailored to the needs of the Spanish market.

In conclusion, despite regulatory and economic challenges, the HVAC sector in Spain succeeded in maintaining its stability in 2024. Adapting to new regulations, investing in innovation, and raising awareness about the importance of energy efficiency will be crucial to its evolution in 2025 and beyond.

Sources: AFEC Market Study 2024