The Heat Act was introduced to phase out the natural gas grid for future homes, promoting energy-efficient solutions like heat pumps. Historically, the 100-Foot Rule mandated utility companies to connect new customers to gas lines, but this led to significant methane emissions and environmental concerns. The Heat Act curtails these emissions and caps utility costs for low-income households. By promoting geothermal district heating, the legislation provides ecological benefits while potentially saving tax dollars. The Act reflects a shift in New York's approach to energy, aligning with similar moves made in states like California and Colorado.
In the early 1900s, New Yorkers introduced the 100-Foot Rule, mandating utility companies to connect new customers to nearby gas lines around 100 feet away.
Methane heats the atmosphere more than carbon dioxide but dissolves faster, with its carbon contributing to prolonged atmospheric warming even after dissolution.
The Heat Act removes the natural gas grid from new homes unless they bear installation costs, potentially favoring heat pumps as a viable alternative.
The Heat Act is a step towards geothermal district heating, which could optimize energy use, reduce emissions, and save taxpayers billions.
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