GAIN Statement on Seattle City Council Legislation to Ban Natural Gas
The Seattle Times reports the Seattle City Council is considering a ban on natural gas for newly constructed homes and buildings, favoring the use of electricity for heating and cooking. The legislation, which would prohibit natural-gas piping systems in new buildings, would take effect on July 1, 2020. More than half the city’s homes currently use natural gas and local utility provider Puget Sound Energy reported their natural gas system provides about two-thirds of the energy used by the city of Seattle.
Berkeley became the first U.S. city to pass a ban on natural gas, and San Francisco has introduced a ban of its own as well.
Below is a statement that can be attributed to me, Craig Stevens, spokesman for the GAIN Coalition:
“Seattle’s proposed ban on natural gas is myopic; seeking to solve for a problem that doesn’t exist. This legislation, and others like it, are a direct threat to consumer choice and could lead to higher utility bills for families and businesses and increased costs for landlords and developers. Clean-burning natural gas is a key component of the American energy portfolio, responsible for more than 35% of our nation’s electricity and also providing heat and comfort to millions of homes across the country. Local residents depend on affordable natural gas to heat their homes, cook their food, and dry their clothes. It is important the Seattle City Council carefully consider the full impact of this legislation before voting.”