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New York City has stopped several new buildings from using natural gas after lawmakers voted to make it the most populous city for climate-change-fighting policy. On signing the measure by the Democratic Mayor, Bill de Blasio, the construction projects submitted for approval after 2027 will have to use something else other than gas or oil for electricity, heating and cooking. A few small buildings would have to be considered in 2024. Hospitals, commercial kitchens and other such facilities would remain exempt. It is a necessary step to reduce global warming. Heating, cooling and powering buildings contribute 70% of the city's carbon emissions and other greenhouse gasses. Furnaces and stoves would use natural gas and other fossil fuels for electricity. The measure will keep tons of carbon dioxide out of the atmosphere over time. The city expects 70% renewable energy requirement by 2030 and about 30% now. In 2019, Berkeley, California, proposed to ban gas hookups for new buildings. This proposal is facing a challenge from a restaurant association, but San Francisco, Seattle and other US cities have followed it. Arizona, Oklahoma and Texas have restricted the cities from enacting such laws. As per the New York Independent System Operator, New York City shifts to electric vehicles, furnaces and appliances, expected to make a long-term upward pressure on electricity usage. The state expects increased demand for wind and solar power to meet the renewable energy targets and growing renewable demand. The Real Estate Board of New York said that it knows the importance of shifting away from fossil fuels, but these measures should be implemented to ensure reliability, affordability and carbon-free electricity. Many real estate companies said that electric heat pumps that transfer heat indoors and outdoors need additional time for development. According to environmental groups, electricity does not need to be expensive, but it is the opposite of some new, energy-efficient buildings. The prices of natural gas have also increased this year. A Democrat of Black Brooklyn district said that the lawmaking also aims to reduce air pollution on behalf of the communities of color. Image Source