White Plains To Phase Out Use Of Dirtiest Fuel Oils

WHITE PLAINS, N.Y. -- The White Plains Common Council approved legislation at its July meeting to phase out the use of the dirtiest fuel oils in all commercial and residential buildings throughout the city.

The White Plains Common Council voted to phase out fuel oils that are dangerous to the environment.
Photo Credit: *Brian Donnelly*

by Alesha Hanson

07/16/2014 1:30 p.m.

These oils are commonly referred to as No. 6 and No. 4 fuel oils and are primarily burned for heat. With the passage of this legislation, White Plains became the first municipality in Westchester County to take this proactive approach.

The legislation was favored by Mayor Thomas Roach, who directed city staff to determine how use of these fuel oils could be phased out.

“These are the dirtiest oils in use for heating today,” said Roach. “Phasing out their use is the right thing to do from an environmental and public health perspective. It also makes good economic sense.”

The city’s legislation requires the phase out of No. 6 fuel oil by July 31, 2016 and No. 4 by June 30, 2020.

The city's Building Department will be responsible for overseeing the implementation of the legislation. The department will be reaching out to property owners in the near future about this new law and providing them with information about incentives to facilitate the conversion process.

Click here to follow Daily Voice White Plains and receive free news updates.