Trafigura seeks 10-year electricity export permit

Summary#

Trafigura Canada Limited has applied to the Canada Energy Regulator to export up to 5 000 000 MWh of electricity per year for 10 years. The Commission of the Canada Energy Regulator is asking for public comments before it decides whether to issue a permit or move the application to a licensing process.

What it does#

• The company applied on 3 July 2025 under the Canadian Energy Regulator Act to export electricity to the United States.
• It seeks permission to export a mix of firm and interruptible electricity up to 5 000 000 MWh annually for 10 years.
• The Commission wants input from interested parties before deciding whether to grant a permit or start a licensing procedure.
• People can request a copy of the application from the applicant by email, and the application is posted on the CER’s website.
• Written comments must be filed by 11 August 2025. The applicant can file answers to some submissions by 2 September 2025.

Who's affected#

• Electricity marketers and traders, including Trafigura Canada Limited (the applicant).
• Utilities, grid operators and provincial energy authorities that manage generation and transmission.
• Companies and people who have indicated interest in buying electricity for use in Canada.
• Residents and businesses in provinces that could be affected by exported power (the Commission specifically asks about effects on provinces other than the one supplying the electricity).

Why it matters#

• Large electricity exports can affect supply and prices in Canadian provinces, especially during tight supply periods.
• The Commission is checking whether Canadian buyers were told about the electricity for sale and given a fair chance to buy it.
• Public comments may highlight local or provincial concerns before the regulator makes a decision.

If you want to read the application or submit a comment, the notice points to the CER website and provides an email contact for the applicant.