Italian manufacturer Arneg has launched PRISMA, a new series of transcritical CO2 (R744) condensing units (CDUs) with a cooling capacity of 2–40kW (0.5–11.3TR) designed for mini-markets and small retail stores.
The PRISMA line features units serving both medium-temperature (MT) and low-temperature (LT) cooling applications as well as a unit serving only MT applications. The dual version offers maximum cooling capacities of approximately 16kW (4.5TR) in MT and 7kW (1.99TR) in LT, while the MT-only version of the unit can have one or two compressors and reaches a maximum cooling capacity of approximately 40kW.
The system is designed to operate in ambient conditions up to 45°C (113°F), ensuring “reliable performance under the most challenging climatic conditions,” according to Arneg. The new line features an integrated gas cooler with either axial or radial fans, enabling the unit to be installed indoors.
The system also features heat recovery, allowing waste heat from the refrigeration process to be used for other purposes, such as space heating. Inverter control for both MT and LT compressors further optimizes performance by adjusting capacity to demand, reducing energy consumption and wear. The inclusion of an oil separator with an integrated reserve also supports operation and maintenance.
Early impressions
Alberto Lucietto, Technical Engineer Application at Arneg, told NaturalRefrgierants.com that the units have already been installed in what he described as “a variety of real-world applications,” particularly in small supermarkets and cold rooms.
“We have gained solid field experience with several installations in key markets, such as Poland and Italy, along with additional projects across Europe, including Switzerland, Germany and Portugal,” Lucietto said.
Lucietto also explained that even though the PRISMA is a new product, “initial market response has been encouraging.” In the second part of 2025, the company produced 21 units and has already received orders for 34 units for the first half of 2026, he added.
“Overall, PRISMA strengthens Arneg’s offering by providing an efficient, sustainable and easy-to-install solution tailored to the evolving needs of the retail market,” said Lucietto.
An expanding natural refrigerants portfolio
The PRISMA line was presented at EuroShop 2026, held February 22–26 in Düsseldorf, Germany, alongside the company’s other solutions, such as OSAKA 3 LX OMNI RING, a smart cabinet solution, showcasing Arneg’s aim to develop “efficient and responsible technologies, aimed at reducing energy consumption and using natural refrigerants.”
Another recent addition to Arneg’s portfolio is Faro, a line of vertical and semi-vertical plug-in refrigerated cabinets with glass doors. The units are equipped with integrated motors running on propane (R290) with a refrigerant charge of less than 150 grams. The cabinets are suitable for MT and LT applications, offering two heights and two depth sizes.
European market trends
Arneg’s new line of CDUs reflects a broader trend in the European food retail market, where smaller CO2-based refrigeration systems are rapidly being adopted. This trend is being driven in part by changing consumer preferences, with shoppers gravitating toward small-format grocery stores.
According to ATMOsphere’s 2025 report, “Refrigeration: Commercial and Industrial Refrigeration with Natural Refrigerants,” 18,000 food retail stores in Europe used CO2 condensing units as of December 2025, a 24% increase year-over-year from 14,500. ATMOsphere is the publisher of NaturalRefrigerants.com.
Data was gathered from systems manufacturers, who were also asked about the capacity of their units. The majority that were used (71%) offered between 11 and 20kW (3.1–5.6TR) of cooling capacity. A total of 10% offered less than 5kW (1.4TR), 9% offering between 5 and 10kW (1.4–2.8TR) and 6% offering more than 50kW (14.2TR).
Among the major players on the European market for CO2 CDUs is Panasonic. Gaku Shimada, Managing Director of Panasonic Cold Chain Poland, told NaturalRefrigerants.com in an October 2025 interview that the company had sold 7,000 CO2 CDUs in Europe. He estimated that the company has more than 30% of the European CO2 CDU market. In 2026, Panasonic is expected to launch its 1HP CO2 unit, designed for small-scale MT or LT walk-in applications, including hotels, restaurants and cafeterias.
Beyond system manufacturers, components suppliers are also adapting to the rising demand. Sanhua began offering component packages for CO2 condensing units in December 2025. The packages include pulse expansion valves, smart sensors, heat exchangers, controllers and safety valves.
