In historic move, New York State bans gas appliances in new buildings

When does the ban come into effect?

According to the Act, which appeared alongside the state's 2024 budget, starting in 2026 new buildings smaller than seven stories in the state will not be allowed to have fossil fuel lines for appliances such as stoves, furnaces, or water heaters. The same policy will be put into effect for larger buildings starting in 2029, and all appliances will have to be electric.

For those worried about climate change, this is some encouraging news since methane gas used as a fuel in furnaces, water boilers, and stoves accounts for over 10 percent of greenhouse gas emissions from the U.S., according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

By-products of gas stoves have also been linked to increased risk for certain types of cancers, childhood asthma as well as cognitive decline. So, a ban on their usage could also lead to potential health benefits.

Recently, the Court of Appeals ruled that a Berkeley, California policy from 2019 barring gas lines defied federal laws. So, it is likely that the New York law could also be challenged. However, experts told Gizmodo that the New York state had made some exceptions in the legislature, which allows commercial kitchens, factories, water treatment plants, as well as hospitals and laboratories to continue to use fossil fuels.

Earlier this year, an official from the White House said President Biden was against outlawing gas stoves in American homes. So does the new law put the state of New York on a collision course with the White House? Interestingly no.

The law comes into effect at a future date and is applicable to new constructions. Even in 2029, households with gas stoves will continue to have them and would not be asked to replace them to comply with the law. However, if you shift into a house or apartment complex built after 2026, be ready for some changes.