WEBSTER, N.Y. — A new law in New York is set to phase out non-electric appliances in new homes by 2026. The mandate aims to reduce the state’s environmental impact, but it is facing local pushback.
Jim Barbato, who’s company, Pridemark Homes, is building new homes in Webster, said the mandate requires new construction of seven stories or less to be all-electric starting Jan. 1, 2026. This includes furnaces, hot water heaters, and appliances.
“The big challenge is that we already have a shortage of electric in the area,” Barbato said. “So now by switching to all electric, we will have the ability to build fewer homes, which is a challenge because there’s currently a shortage of houses.”…