New York City bans new gas hookups

New York City will ban gas hookups in new buildings and buildings that undergo gut renovations.

The new law, recently passed by a large margin by the City Council, will be signed by Mayor Bill de Blasio. It prohibits new gas stoves, boilers, and heaters. The law will take effect in December 2023 for buildings of six stories or less and in 2027 for taller buildings.

A de Blasio spokesperson said in a published report that the city’s move to require all-electric buildings can be an exemplar for any city around the world. Other cities that have imposed similar rules are in warmer clients and do not have as many tall buildings, the spokesperson said.

Burning fossil fuels for heat and hot water accounts for 40% of New York City’s greenhouse gas emissions, according to the mayor’s office.