Move FM Global News

ALBANY, New York: As part of a plan to reduce carbon emissions, but opposed by industry groups, New York State became the first in the US to ban the use of natural gas for heating and cooking in some new buildings.

Last week, the state’s Democratic-led Assembly and Senate approved the legislation, which is included the state’s $229 billion budget.

In a statement, New York Speaker Carl Heastie said, “Changing the ways we make and use energy to decrease our reliance on fossil fuels will help ensure a healthier environment for us and our children.”

To address public health and climate concerns, several other US cities are also implementing or are considering adopting similar policies that ban or discourage natural gas in new buildings.

However, such efforts have been resisted by gas industry groups and restaurant and appliance lobby groups, which argue that the claimed risks have been exaggerated.

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

Under New York’s new law, beginning in 2025 new buildings must be constructed with only electric hookups for appliances and utilities.

According to the New York Times, the new law will go into effect for buildings with fewer than seven stories in 2026, and for taller buildings beginning in 2029.

Hospitals, critical infrastructure and commercial food establishments will be exempt from the requirements.