Hawaiian Electric is expanding its Wildfire Safety Strategy by launching a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) program.
Starting July 1, Hawaiian Electric may preemptively shut off power in areas that appear at high risk of wildfire during periods of forecast high winds and dry conditions.
The program will start in the following areas:
• Oʻahu: Waiʻanae, Mākaha, Nānākuli, Māʻili, and Ka‘ena Point (approximately 2,700
customers)
• Hawaiʻi Island: North Hawai‘i between Kohala and Waikoloa, in
West Hawai‘i between Kalaoa and Hōlualoa, and between Mauna Kea Access Road and
Waiki‘i Ranch (approximately 19,300 customers)
• Maui County: West Maui, Upcountry, parts of Central and South Maui, and parts of
central Molokaʻi (approximately 26,100 customers)
These initial starting areas have a combination of risk factors for wildfires, including exposure to
strong winds, dry conditions, vegetation prone to wildfires, and historically higher rates of
wildfires. Over time, Hawaiian Electric will expand this program to all high-risk areas on the
islands that it serves.
A PSPS will only be activated in an area if weather data, including statements from the National Weather Service, indicate conditions for heightened wildfire risk. These conditions may include strong winds, low humidity and dry vegetation. Combined, these factors can result in downed trees or flying debris contacting power lines and damaging electrical infrastructure, which can create the risk of wildfires. Before activating a PSPS, Hawaiian Electric will notify the public and coordinate with government officials, first responders and emergency response agencies.
Hawaiian Electric will provide public notifications through news releases, social media, online outage maps and updates to its website. If weather conditions change suddenly, shutoff may occur with little or no notice.
During a PSPS activation, power will remain shut off so long as hazardous weather conditions persist. When the weather improves, power lines must be inspected and any damage must be repaired before service can be restored. This may involve ground crews and aerial inspections using helicopters and drones. This process may result in extended outages lasting several hours, possibly even days depending on the location and extent of any damage.
For more contact Hawaiian Electric’s PSPS hotline at 1-844-483-8666 or visit hawaiianelectric.com/PSPS.