Research released today by the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA) confirms what international studies have long shown: gas appliances in the home emit dangerous pollutants that pose serious health risks.
The Health impacts and costs of indoor combustion in Aotearoa report, which also looks at the health impacts of combustion appliances - including gas stoves, unflued gas heaters, and wood burners of all types - has been welcomed by the New Zealand Green Building Council. “There’s now a mountain of evidence showing gas in our homes is a major health issue. The report, commissioned by government adds local proof, we must take action. Regulators must work with industry to electrify all homes and protect Kiwi families,” says Sam Archer, Director of Market Transformation at the New Zealand Green Building Council (NZGBC).
“Gas belongs outside with the BBQ, not inside with the kids.”
The Emission Impossible Limited and Resource Economics modelling shows that the harmful gases released from gas cooking are contributing to over 200 premature deaths and 3,000 additional asthma cases a year in Aotearoa. The stoves are a significant contributor to making us and our tamariki sick.
This results in over $3 billion dollars' worth of costs, including $47 million in direct costs to the health system. As the main heat source for around 45,000 homes, unflued gas heaters alone are estimated to impose health system costs of close to $13 million a year.
“More than ever, there is now a very clear response to this report – it’s time to put a stop to new gas connections. Our homes do not need gas or gas appliances. Electric alternatives are available, increasingly affordable, and cheaper to run. Ignoring the mounting evidence on the impact of gas in our homes is just plain irresponsible,” Sam Archer says.
Despite the evidence, thousands of new homes are still being connected to the gas network each year.
“It’s staggering that we’re still expanding gas use, especially in residential homes. It worsens our energy crisis and is making people sick. We could stop new connections overnight with minimal disruption or cost.”
The New Zealand Green Building Council is also calling for support to help households transition away from gas – through encouraging replacement of gas appliances at end of life, with electric.
“If a family’s gas stove fails, they’ll likely replace it with another gas unit—because it’s quick and they may not be aware of the healthier, more efficient alternatives. Without a clear phase-out plan or financial support, families continue locking themselves into skyrocketing gas prices and poor health outcomes for years.”
“Without more support for electrifying, we risk deepening energy and health inequities, especially for lower-income families.”
A recent report from the NZGBC found moving all homes and buildings off gas and to electric heat pumps could save households $1.5 billion in energy costs and free up to 40% of current gas production for heavy manufacturing and other industries that are flagging due to skyrocketing energy prices.
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Note to editors
About Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA)
EECA encourages the use of sustainable energy in New Zealand. Their purpose is to mobilise New Zealanders to be world leaders in clean and clever energy use so that everyone benefits from a sustainable energy system that supports the prosperity and wellbeing of current and future generations.
About New Zealand Green Building Council
The New Zealand Green Building Council (NZGBC) is a not-for-profit organisation driving the transformation of Aotearoa’s built environment. Representing over 700 members, we advocate for sustainable, low-carbon buildings and run trusted building certifications like Green Star and Homestar, supporting industry to create healthier, greener homes and buildings for all New Zealanders.
Photo credit: KWON JUNHO on Unsplash