New York State bans gas stoves, furnaces in many new buildings

New York has become the first US state to pass a law banning the use of natural gas for heating and cooking in some new buildings, a plan designed to reduce carbon emissions but opposed by industry groups as too large and expensive.

The Democratic-led Assembly and Senate last Tuesday approved the provision, which covers the US$229 billion state budget. Gov. Kathy Hochul and lawmakers agreed to a spending package plan last week.

“Changing the way we create and use energy to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels will help ensure a healthier environment for us and our children,” New York Speaker Carl Heastie said in a statement.

The move in New York comes amid a fierce public debate in the United States over the health and environmental impacts of cooking appliances that burn fossil fuels and over the wider role of natural gas in climate change.

Who opposes the ban and why?

Dozens of cities across the United States have adopted or are considering policies that ban or reduce natural gas in new buildings to address public health and climate concerns. They have been met with strong resistance from gas industry groups and restaurant and appliance lobby groups who argue their concerns are overblown.

“A first-in-the-nation, unconstitutional ban on natural gas hookups in new construction will drive up utility bills and increase housing costs,” Republican New York State Senator Robert Ortt said in a statement.

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What buildings are covered? When does it start?

The provision requires new buildings to be built with only electrical connections for equipment and utilities starting in 2025. The law will apply to buildings less than seven stories from 2026. The requirement will start for taller buildings in 2029, according to to the New York Times.

Hospitals, critical infrastructure and commercial food establishments will be exempted from the requirement.

Buildings where the local grid cannot handle the load will also be exempt from the new law. Existing buildings and equipment will not be affected by the legislation.