Could parts of the US be left in the dark? Why this energy dispute matters
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Trade disputes are nothing new, but when politics start to affect something as essential as electricity, it’s time to pay attention.
A recent statement from Ontario Premier Doug Ford has sparked concern, as he suggested cutting electricity exports to the US in response to ongoing trade tensions.
For many Americans—especially those in states that rely on Canadian power—this raises an important question: How secure is our energy supply?
“If they want to try to annihilate Ontario, I will do everything—including cut off their energy with a smile on my face,” Ford said Monday, as reported by the Toronto Sun.
He emphasized Ontario’s role as a key energy provider to US states, stating, “They rely on our energy, they need to feel the pain. They want to come at us hard, we’re going to come back twice as hard.”
The US may be an economic powerhouse, but when it comes to electricity, many states rely on their northern neighbor more than they might realize.
Canada is a significant source of power, with Ontario alone supplying enough electricity to power 1.5 million American homes in 2023.
States like New York, Michigan, and Minnesota rely on this cross-border energy trade.
Ford’s remarks came just before the US imposed a 25% tariff on imports, a policy enacted by President Trump that took effect at 12:01 a.m. Tuesday.
It remains unclear whether Ford was referring specifically to Ontario’s energy exports or whether this could extend to other Canadian provinces.
In addition to his comments on energy, Ford reaffirmed his stance on matching Trump’s tariffs. “I [didn’t] start this tariff war, but we’re going to win this tariff war,” he stated.
Also read: Protect your pocket: Trump announces 25% tariffs on Canada and Mexico imports—here’s what it means for you
While trade policies are primarily under federal jurisdiction, Ford expressed support for Canada’s national response, stating that the provinces stand together on the issue.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul, when asked about Ford’s comments, expressed confidence that Ontario would not follow through with the energy cutoff.
She pointed to her positive relationship with the Ontario premier, saying, “I’d be happy to have additional conversations with him on how we can support each other during this crisis.”
Meanwhile, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced countermeasures, including a 25% tariff on C$30 billion (approximately US$20.7 billion) worth of US imports, covering a wide range of goods such as orange juice, peanut butter, wine, beer, appliances, and apparel.
Trudeau warned that if the US tariffs remained in place beyond 21 days, Canada would expand its tariffs to an additional C$125 billion in imports.
On Tuesday, Trudeau criticized the US tariff decision, calling it the start of a trade war and asserting that Canada “will not back down.”
The possibility of disruptions to electricity imports from Canada underscores the interconnected nature of the North American power grid and the potential impacts of international trade disputes.
Energy isn’t just about keeping the lights on—it powers hospitals, businesses, and entire economies.
If supply disruptions were to happen, the effects could ripple far beyond just a few border states.
For now, the possibility of Ontario halting electricity exports remains uncertain. However, the escalating trade dispute highlights the deep economic ties between the US and Canada—and the potential consequences when those ties are strained.
Read next: Incredible comeback: Disabled employees, veterans, and military spouses rehired at major science agency
At The GrayVine, we know many of our readers have lived through times of rationing and energy crises. What do you think about this issue? Have you experienced power shortages before? Share your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear your perspective!
A recent statement from Ontario Premier Doug Ford has sparked concern, as he suggested cutting electricity exports to the US in response to ongoing trade tensions.
For many Americans—especially those in states that rely on Canadian power—this raises an important question: How secure is our energy supply?
“If they want to try to annihilate Ontario, I will do everything—including cut off their energy with a smile on my face,” Ford said Monday, as reported by the Toronto Sun.
He emphasized Ontario’s role as a key energy provider to US states, stating, “They rely on our energy, they need to feel the pain. They want to come at us hard, we’re going to come back twice as hard.”
Ontario Premier Doug Ford is standing firm amidst rising trade disputes. Image Source: YouTube / Global News.
How Dependent Is The US On Canadian Energy?
The US may be an economic powerhouse, but when it comes to electricity, many states rely on their northern neighbor more than they might realize.
Canada is a significant source of power, with Ontario alone supplying enough electricity to power 1.5 million American homes in 2023.
States like New York, Michigan, and Minnesota rely on this cross-border energy trade.
The Trade Dispute That Sparked This Controversy
Ford’s remarks came just before the US imposed a 25% tariff on imports, a policy enacted by President Trump that took effect at 12:01 a.m. Tuesday.
It remains unclear whether Ford was referring specifically to Ontario’s energy exports or whether this could extend to other Canadian provinces.
In addition to his comments on energy, Ford reaffirmed his stance on matching Trump’s tariffs. “I [didn’t] start this tariff war, but we’re going to win this tariff war,” he stated.
While trade policies are primarily under federal jurisdiction, Ford expressed support for Canada’s national response, stating that the provinces stand together on the issue.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul, when asked about Ford’s comments, expressed confidence that Ontario would not follow through with the energy cutoff.
She pointed to her positive relationship with the Ontario premier, saying, “I’d be happy to have additional conversations with him on how we can support each other during this crisis.”
Meanwhile, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced countermeasures, including a 25% tariff on C$30 billion (approximately US$20.7 billion) worth of US imports, covering a wide range of goods such as orange juice, peanut butter, wine, beer, appliances, and apparel.
Trudeau warned that if the US tariffs remained in place beyond 21 days, Canada would expand its tariffs to an additional C$125 billion in imports.
On Tuesday, Trudeau criticized the US tariff decision, calling it the start of a trade war and asserting that Canada “will not back down.”
Also read: How Trump's tariffs could impact your wallet: What you need to know
What This Means For US Energy Security
The possibility of disruptions to electricity imports from Canada underscores the interconnected nature of the North American power grid and the potential impacts of international trade disputes.
Energy isn’t just about keeping the lights on—it powers hospitals, businesses, and entire economies.
If supply disruptions were to happen, the effects could ripple far beyond just a few border states.
For now, the possibility of Ontario halting electricity exports remains uncertain. However, the escalating trade dispute highlights the deep economic ties between the US and Canada—and the potential consequences when those ties are strained.
Read next: Incredible comeback: Disabled employees, veterans, and military spouses rehired at major science agency
At The GrayVine, we know many of our readers have lived through times of rationing and energy crises. What do you think about this issue? Have you experienced power shortages before? Share your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear your perspective!
