As part of a broader shift away from natural gas in New York, a pair of local utilities committed to achieving net-zero growth in gas sales throughout their service territories during a three-year period beginning Dec. 1.

new york gas consumption

New York State Electric & Gas Corp. (NYSEG) and sister company Rochester Gas & Electric (RG&E) made the commitment under a rate plan approved Thursday by the New York State Public Service Commission. Under the plan, which is in compliance with the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (CLCPA), the utilities also pledge to discontinue their promotion of natural gas services, incentivize the expanded use of heat pumps and pursue non-pipe alternatives.

In addition, NYSEG and RG&E agree to conduct several studies, including those related to geothermal...