The state of New York officially banned cookers, stoves and gas heating. The Senate and State Assembly have approved the measure, which is part of the new $229 billion budget law introduced by the Democratic governor Kathy Hochul. The goal is to make the state of the Big Apple a greener environment. New York is the first American state to make this decision. Two years for houses and condominiums to adapt to the new rules. In fact, the provision will come into force from 2026. A radical change for a state where three out of five families rely on gas.
“This measure it will protect families and inhabitants starting New York on the right track towards a cleaner and healthier future“ the spokeswoman commented Katy Zielinski of the governor.
The debate ignites in the USA: environmentalists rejoice, lobbies and republicans protest
New York's decision comes at a great time national debate on the impact on health and the environment of fossil fuels and on future decisions to be taken to halt climate change. According to some data, buildings, in New York State alone, cause the 32% negative emissions for global warming. Many cities in the US have adopted or are considering policies that prohibit or discourage the use of natural gas in new buildings. For the White House, climate change is a priority. Just think of theIRA (Inflation Reduction Act), approved by Biden last summer, which among the provisions provides interventions related to the environment for 386 billion dollars (incentives and tax credits for households and businesses aimed at promoting the transition to renewable energy sources or nuclear power). The choice was obviously welcomed with great joy by the environmental movements while protests immediately erupted from the opposition front. THE Republicans consider the decision “a unconstitutional prohibitionfirst in the nation on natural gas hookups in new construction that will drive up utility bills and raise housing costs,” says New York State Senator Robert Ortt. Vehement protests also come from adults industrial groups of gas and LOBBY of restaurants and appliance manufacturers who deem environmental concerns exaggerated.
“Changing the way we produce and use energy to decrease our dependence on fossil fuels will help ensure a healthier environment for us and for our children,” said the spokesman for the New York State General Assembly, Carl Heatie member of the democratic party.
Stop the gas in the house: what will happen now?
The new provisions will require that i new buildings they will have to be equipped with electric heating and cooking starting from 2025. The stop will come into force for buildings with less than seven floors starting from 2026. For taller buildings, such as skyscrapers, the measures will come into force by 2029. There are some exceptions. Hospitals, laundries, critical infrastructures, large shopping centers and some restaurants will be exempt from the measure. Existing houses and buildings or those undergoing renovation are also excluded from the measures.
New York's decision to ban gas stoves and heating in new buildings is a significant step toward a more sustainable future. However, it is understandable that there is some debate about this decision, fearing increases in utility bills and housing costs. The adoption of electric underfloor heating it could be an effective solution to ensure the thermal comfort of buildings without using fossil fuels. Overall, this initiative represents a concrete commitment to transitioning to cleaner energy sources and can serve as an example for other cities and states. The future of sustainable energy depends on a willingness to adopt bold and progressive changes like this one.