NYC Poised to Ban Gas in New Buildings, Buoying Electrification

The movement to banish natural gas from U.S. homes and buildings is about to claim its biggest prize yet: New York City.

Next week, city council members are expected to vote to ban gas hookups in new buildings as a way to fight both air pollution and climate change. Gone will be gas furnaces, water heaters and the blue-flame stovetops beloved by cooks and realtors alike in the city of 8 million people. New buildings smaller than seven stories must rely solely on electricity starting at the end of 2023, while larger buildings will have an extra four years to comply.