Provinces’ measures to limit electricity exports to U.S. could strain cross-border ties, experts say

Mounting threats from provincial governments to restrict electricity exports to the United States could lead to higher power bills and more brownouts across the continent, according to legal and regulatory experts.This past week, Ontario Premier Doug Ford announced a 25-per-cent surcharge on his province’s electricity exports to the U.S., effective Monday. Manitoba’s government issued a directive to Manitoba Hydro requiring cabinet approval before the Crown utility signs new power purchase agreements or export contracts with American customers, or extends existing arrangements. Quebec, meanwhile, has said it’s considering halting certain kinds of electricity transfers to U.S. customers.