NEW YORK- Nassau County Executive and Republican gubernatorial candidate Bruce Blakeman is criticizing New York’s all-electric building requirements, arguing they increase housing costs and strain the state’s electric grid. Blakeman has pledged that, if elected governor, he would reverse the state’s restrictions on natural gas in new buildings.
Blakeman’s position contrasts sharply with the policy backed by Governor Kathy Hochul. Under state law, most new buildings must be constructed without fossil fuel systems, including natural gas, with the requirements taking effect in phases over the coming years. Supporters of the law say it is a key part of New York’s effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve air quality, and meet the state’s climate goals under the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act. Several of the emission reduction goals of the act have already been extended.
The building sector is one of New York’s largest sources of carbon emissions, and Hochul has argued that transitioning new construction to electric heating and appliances will help combat climate change while reducing indoor air pollution over the long term.
Blakeman called the all-electric mandate “unscientific” and “unaffordable,” contending that the state’s electric grid is not prepared to handle the increased demand and that natural gas remains a more reliable and cost-effective energy source for homeowners and developers.
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