The Blubber

Ontario Premier Stands Firm on Electricity Surcharge, Warns of Potential Power Cutoff

Ontario Premier Doug Ford doubled down on his 25% electricity surcharge on U.S.-bound exports Tuesday, vowing not to back down until U.S. President Donald Trump lifts his tariffs on Canadian imports.

Ford: "We Will Not Back Down"

Speaking to MSNBC, Ford reaffirmed his hardline stance, saying he would not hesitate to take further action—including cutting electricity exports entirely—if necessary.

"We will not back down. We will be relentless. I apologize to the American people that President Trump decided to launch an unprovoked attack on our country."

Ford’s remarks came just hours after Trump announced plans to double tariffs on all steel and aluminum products coming into the U.S. from Canada.

Surcharge Adds $10 Per Megawatt-Hour

Under Ontario’s new policy, any electricity generator selling power to the U.S. must now apply a 25% surcharge, adding an extra $10 per megawatt-hour to the cost.

Ontario estimates the surcharge will generate between C$300,000 and C$400,000 (US$432,000 to US$576,000) per day.

Ford Threatens to Cut Off Power Supply

Asked during a CNBC interview whether Ontario would go as far as cutting electricity exports entirely, Ford left the option open:

"Is it a tool in our toolkit? 100%. And as he continues to hurt Canadian families, Ontario families, I won’t hesitate to do that."

Ontario exports power to 1.5 million homes across New York, Minnesota, and Michigan, making the potential cutoff a serious escalation in the escalating trade war between the U.S. and Canada.