New York is set to make history as the first state in the United States to implement a law prohibiting fossil fuel combustion in most new buildings. This would mean the elimination of gas stoves, furnaces, and propane heating systems in favor of environmentally friendly alternatives like induction stoves and heat pumps. The legislation is expected to go into effect in 2026 for new buildings under seven stories and in 2029 for larger structures.
After weeks of negotiations, Governor Kathy Hochul and state lawmakers have included the ban in the $229 billion state budget deal. The law is expected to be passed this week. Although other states like California and Washington have advanced electrification through their building codes, New York would be the first to implement a law promoting zero emissions in new homes and buildings.
New York City passed similar legislation in 2021, which would prohibit natural gas hookups in new buildings by the end of this year. According to the US Energy Information Administration, New York was the sixth-largest natural gas consumer in the country in 2020, with natural gas providing 46% of the state’s electricity generation. In 2021, the residential sector, where three out of five households use natural gas for heating, accounted for over a third of natural gas delivered to New York residents.
Critics argue that the ban will increase homebuyers’ and builders’ costs and limit consumer choice. They also suggest that the move to electricity-powered appliances could increase emissions from power plants, especially during peak energy demand. Additionally, some argue that the focus should be on reducing emissions from existing buildings rather than placing restrictions on new construction. Finally, critics also point out that the ban may disproportionately affect low-income households who cannot afford more expensive, electric-powered appliances.
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