U.S.-Canada Trade War Risks Electricity Supply, Blackouts Across Northeast

The ongoing trade war between the U.S. and Canada, ignited by President Trump's tariffs on Canadian goods, has escalated to include electricity tariffs, with Ontario imposing a 25% surcharge on electricity exports to the U.S. This retaliation risks disrupting the integrated electrical grid that has historically provided stability and affordability for both nations, particularly in the Northeast U.S. States like New York and Michigan, which rely heavily on Canadian electricity, could see increased power prices and potential blackouts. Experts warn that the tariffs may undermine efforts to transition to cleaner energy sources and could lead to significant economic fallout for consumers. Despite these tensions, most Michigan ratepayers may not face immediate price hikes due to existing long-term contracts and in-state utility production. Trump's comments suggest a deepening conflict, as he has threatened to further escalate tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum.