Denver judge upholds city restrictions on gas appliances

A federal judge has upheld Denver’s ordinances that restrict the use of gas appliances in new buildings. Judge Philip Brimmer dismissed a lawsuit filed in July 2024 by several trade groups, including the National Association of Home Builders and the Restaurant Law Center, who challenged the city's ability to mandate electric appliances.

In support of the city, the Sierra Club joined the legal defense, arguing that the challenge was baseless. Legal representatives for the city stated that the decision affirms the authority of local governments to regulate polluting gas appliances for heating and water in homes and commercial spaces. The ruling provides a potential legal roadmap for other municipalities seeking to implement similar electrification policies.