In a sweeping move to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, New York State is implementing a law that requires most new buildings to be all-electric starting in 2026. This policy prohibits gas, oil, and other fossil fuel systems for heating, cooking, and appliances in many newly constructed residential and commercial structures. The mandate is part of the state’s broader climate legislation and is intended to align new construction with New York’s emissions targets.
Beginning January 1st, 2026, new buildings up to seven stories tall, and commercial buildings with 100,000 square feet or more of conditioned floor area, must be built using only electric heat and appliances. Fossil fuel equipment (natural gas, heating oil, and propane) will generally be banned in these new builds.
Starting in 2029, the requirement expands to essentially all new buildings and homes, regardless of size or height (with some exemptions)…