New York Requires All-Electric Heating in New Buildings by 2026

Starting January 2026, New York State will require most new buildings under seven stories, including residential homes and condos, to be heated entirely by electricity, banning the use of oil and gas heating systems. This mandate, celebrated by Democratic lawmakers and environmental advocates as a major step toward reducing the state's carbon emissions, is part of New York's broader climate goals under the 2019 Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act. While proponents argue that electrification will reduce emissions and lower long-term costs, critics, primarily Republicans and industry stakeholders, warn that it could increase construction and heating costs and strain the state's power grid, which currently relies heavily on fossil fuels for electricity generation. Exceptions to the rule include buildings with permits filed before the end of 2025 and certain commercial and institutional buildings such as restaurants and hospitals. The new regulations aim to address the building sector, which is the largest source of emissions in the state, though energy experts caution about rising electricity demand and the risk of blackouts. The policy is expected to phase in broader electrification requirements over time, with the potential for all buildings in New York eventually transitioning to electric systems.