‘Ultimately, this is the future’
TL/DR –
New York state plans to ban the installation of gas systems in new buildings and homes from January 2026, a move opposed by U.S. Rep. Nick Langworthy, who advocates for affordable energy. Proponents of the ban argue that electric new constructions are cheaper to build, cheaper to live in, and safer, with electric appliances like induction stoves being up to three times more energy-efficient than gas counterparts. Replacing gas in buildings and homes is also seen as a measure against climate change, as the burning of fossil fuels, including gas, accounts for over three-quarters of heating pollution.
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New York forges a path towards banning gas hookups in new buildings, despite opposition
The state of New York is on track to prohibit the installation of gas systems in new buildings and homes. This policy, approved by the state legislature, is scheduled to begin its phased implementation in January 2026. However, U.S. Representative Nick Langworthy is a prominent critic of the ban and has pledged to initiate federal legislation to counteract it.
Spectrum News 1 details Langworthy’s bid to “ban the bans”, standing up for the right of New Yorkers to affordable energy.
Yet, those in favor of the ban argue it will enhance affordability. Liz Moran, New York policy advocate at Earthjustice, told Spectrum News 1, “All electric new construction is going to save people money. They’re cheaper to build in, they’re cheaper to live in, and they’re safer for the people who live there. This is ultimately the way of the future.”
The Case for Induction Stoves and Clean Energy
Electric appliances, such as the induction stove, are pointed out as being up to three times more energy-efficient than their gas counterparts, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. It is noted that these appliances also offer faster cooking times and protect occupants from indoor pollutants like nitrous oxides, carbon monoxide, and formaldehyde, which are linked to gas ranges.
The transition away from gas also has significant environmental implications. Gas, along with oil and coal, contributes to more than three-quarters of heating pollution, as per United Nations data.
Those who wish to benefit from induction ranges can take advantage of an $840 discount through the Inflation Reduction Act until the end of 2025. For those who rent or cannot afford a significant kitchen makeover, plug-in induction burners could start at around $50. This offers all the advantages of induction cooking, but at a reduced cost.
New York is not alone in facing controversy over its stance on gas appliances. Colorado is under litigation from a trade association over a recent law requiring the placement of cigarette-style warning labels on gas stoves.
As the debate escalates in New York, Gov. Kathy Hochul’s energy and environment communications adviser did not hold back in his critique of Congressman Langworthy. He suggested, according to Spectrum News 1, that instead of “grandstanding and fearmongering, the congressman’s time would be better spent trying to reverse the massive federal cuts he enthusiastically helped push through that will devastate the communities he swore to represent here in New York.”
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