Ontario Slaps 25% Surcharge on U.S.-Bound Electricity in Response to Trump Trade Wars. Could Cost $400,000 A Day.

Ontario Priemer Doug Ford

Ontario Premier Doug Ford announced Monday that he's imposing a 25 per cent surcharge on all U.S.-bound electricity for about 1.5 million homes and businesses in response to President Donald Trump's threats of tariffs on Canadian goods.

Ontario provides electricity to customers in Michigan, New York, and Minnesota.

An Ontario press release said the surcharge could cost America an extra $400,000 a day.

“President Trump’s tariffs are a disaster for the U.S. economy. They’re making life more expensive for American families and businesses,” said Ford in a press release.

While U.S. tariffs have been put on hold for a month, Ford said the surcharge will remain in effect for now.

“Until the threat of tariffs is gone for good, Ontario won’t back down," Ford said. "We’ll stand strong, use every tool in our toolkit, and do whatever it takes to protect Ontario.”

Stephen Lecce, Ontario's Minister of Energy and Electrification, said in a statement:

“For decades, Ontario has powered American homes, factories, offices, and jobs, and we will not stand by as our vital electricity exports are taken for granted. At a time when prices are going up for families in America, Canada and the United States should be working together to strengthen our trade and investment relationships to ensure a prosperous future for both sides of the border.”