ALBANY, N.Y. (WBEN) New York is on track to become the first state in the country to ban natural gas in new buildings, with Democratic leaders in the legislature and Governor Kathy Hochul reaching agreement on energy policy as part of a conceptual deal on a new budget.
The deal follows weeks of negotiations. Exact terms have not been made public. Advocates said the gas ban would take effect in 2026 for most new buildings and in 2029 for taller buildings.
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Governor Kathy Hochul briefly mentioned the electrification plan when meeting with reporters at the Capitol Thursday night. She mentioned slightly different dates. "We're going to be the first state in the nation to advance zero emissions in homes and buildings, beginning in 2025 for small buildings and 2028 for large buildings." Budget documents were still being drawn up as this article was published.
New construction is the key, said Wall Street Journal Capitol reporter Jimmy Vielkind. "It requires all electric buildings, in new construction. Existing gas hookups that people currently have in their homes would be exempt.
The state budget director noted that there will be mechanisms in place to ensure a strong power grid in the state.
Vielkind noted that the so-called natural gas ban has been pared back from the governor's original proposal.
Back in January, Hochul made recommendations based on the Climate Action Council, who suggested the banning of gas, fossil fuel-based appliances and energy sources, in existing homes, in new buildings and commercial buildings.
The phase out would have started with new builds in 2025 and expand to existing homes and commercial buildings in 2030 and 2035.
"This is one where they haven't yet finished the exact language," added Vielkind. "I'm a little hesitant to get too specific on details. There are several areas related to energy and the environment that lawmakers said would be finalized over the weekend, with the hope that bills will be printed and voted on starting on Monday."
The controversial part of the proposal, affecting existing homes and buildings, is not addressed in this budget. Vielkind said that is being contemplated through separate regulatory processes. "My understanding of the budget agreement, is that will not be part of the bills that are acted upon in the coming days.
The New York law is likely to face legal challenges.