State officials have committed to making the state green by whatever means necessary, even targeting your gas stoves. The initial plan will ban most newly constructed buildings from having gas stoves and other gas powered appliances. In place of this, all electric heating and cooking appliances will be mandated in newly constructed buildings under seven stories by 2026.
The specific legislation targeting the stoves was included within the Fiscal Year 2024 State Budget. As detailed in the voter rolls the budget passed (123-27) with majorities in support on the floor and Finance Committee. According to the budget the State is focused on “Combating climate change and investing in energy affordability by implementing first-in-the-nation zero-emission requirements for new building construction, and expanding the New York Power Authority’s ability to support New York’s climate goals.” This has caused financial concern to families and small businesses that use gas heating and cooking.
Dave Lorell is the Health and Safety Officer for Paraco Gas, and he gives his professional perspective on the issue. When asked about the study used to justify the climate provisions of the FY 24 State Budget he said, “The study is skewed. There’s a multitude of reasons why indoor air quality could be polluted. It’s a weak study”. Mr. Lorell is also not sure what the economic impact would be on the consumer and the business owner, “I don’t know if there will be an inverse reaction to prices of goods…we’re not sure of the impact on the propane marketer.” Mr. Lorell also mentions that Electric Heating and cooking is inferior to natural gas heating and cooking, “Electric is ineffective for heating when compared to natural gas…people like the ability to control how much natural gas to expend when cooking, you do not have the freedom with electric appliances.”
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After searching Home Depot or any major department store’s website you can see the price averages of both gas and electric stoves. The lower cost options for gas stoves are typically between $350-450 while the cheapest electric stoves start at $500. According to ConsumerAffairs.com it costs on average $350 per line when converting to electric heating and appliances. When comparing gas and electric appliances, maintenance costs and life of the appliances must also be analyzed. Gas stoves and ovens have fewer parts, so the maintenance and shelf life is longer compared to their technologically complex counterparts. With the push to eventually ban stoves comes the unfortunate reality that many of us will have to pay hundreds, if not thousands of dollars to replace gas lines and purchase new heating and cooking appliances.
Similar concerns were expressed by State Assemblyman Ed Flood (R-D4) “First, the transfer over will cost New Yorkers. The cost of electric is unbelievably high right now (sic). My bill regularly exceeds my gas bill every month. It's making it so there's no more competition with the electric companies. By taking every form of energy to electric, the companies will have a monopoly and have no incentive to keep the rates reasonable.” When asked about any problems implementing the plan in 2026, Assemblyman Flood expressed concerns with how the construction process will be hampered. “The plan will create massive problems for people already in the construction process. Changing plans, zoning issues, and those looking for permits will incur more costs for builders and families.” When reached for comment at his constituent office, Assemblyman Phil Ramos (D-Brentwood) was unavailable for comment on the issue.
There are ultimately many unknowns with this gas stove ban, however the prospects do not look good. From a business and consumer perspective the exact effect and extent of the economic repercussions are absolutely unknown. However, going off of the current reality of current electricity rates they are high. According to PSEG’s peak rates for residential buildings, the average Super Off Peak is $0.67/kWh, Off Peak is $0.10/kWh and Peak is $0.17/kWh. The concerns over this issue are many and as 2026 approaches, elected officials will certainly be asked many more questions regarding this from an increasingly alarmed and tax weary citizenry.