ALBANY – The state’s attempt to reach a “zero-emissions” status through the Climate and Community Protection Act will require that most newly constructed buildings of seven stories or less will not be allowed to use appliances that rely on natural gas. The law, going into effect on December 31, 2025, bans the use of gas cooking stoves and furnaces. Instead, the buildings will be required to utilize electric appliances and electric heat pumps.
The law has created confusion and caused the circulation of a number of misconceptions. Gas cooking ranges and other appliances that use fossil fuels are not completely outlawed.
New construction of buildings including hospitals, industrial manufacturing facilities, and commercial food establishments, including restaurants and bars, will be exempt from the ban. Additionally, those same facilities will be allowed to use backup generators.
