Quebec, Canada – The “Québec Solidaire” (QS) movement has called on Quebec Premier François Legault to use hydroelectric power prices as leverage in negotiations with elected US President Donald Trump, who threatens to impose tariffs on Canadian goods.

Movement spokesperson, Rouba Ghazal, stated on Sunday:

“We have immense bargaining power represented by our hydroelectricity, which is exported to the United States in large quantities. If Trump wants to impose tariffs, Quebec should threaten to raise the prices of exported electricity.”

Ghazal clarified that Quebec does not need to wait for agreement from other premiers or the federal government, emphasizing:

“We must defend our interests ourselves, and this is Mr. Legault's responsibility.”

Position of the Quebec Government

For his part, Legault explicitly rejected the proposal to cut or raise energy export prices, affirming that this approach could harm trade relations between the two sides. Economy and Energy Minister, Christine Fréchette, stressed the importance of caution in dealing with Trump's threats, stating:

“We need to focus our efforts on preventing the imposition of tariffs, not escalation.”

Experts' Warnings

For his part, law professor at the University of Montreal, Dan Kraft, described the “Québec Solidaire” call as “empty political statements,” noting that changing current contract prices could lead to costly legal battles and harm the reputation of “Hydro-Québec.”

Kraft added:

“The Quebec government should wait and watch what Trump will do after taking office, as reality may force him to adopt a more realistic approach.”

Background

Quebec exports large amounts of hydroelectric power to the United States, especially to the New England and New York regions, which are among the most important clients of “Hydro-Québec.” As trade tensions rise, the debate intensifies over how the province should deal with Trump’s threats.