HECO

During an event called Lala, 6 in 10 people lost power across most of the state. Despite HECO spending millions on strengthening its electric grid in recent years, widespread power outages occurred. A state inquiry may be required to determine why this failure happened.

Hawaiian Electric expects to restore power to nearly all remaining customers on Hawaiʻi Island by nightfall. This restoration effort follows damage caused by Tropical Storm Lala, according to HECO.

HECO warned that certain Hawaii Island customers may face extended power outages lasting weeks following a recent event named Lala. Specifically, the utility cautioned that the hardest-hit areas, particularly rural parts of Hawaii Island, are expected to endure prolonged periods without electricity.

HECO has activated its emergency response plan and is fully staffed for the weekend. The organization mobilized its crews and is undergoing final preparations and checks in anticipation of an approaching storm.

High oil prices are increasing costs for HECO customers, with average Oʻahu home electric bills rising by $60 since June 2025.

The Topa Financial Center was closed following an electrical equipment issue, leading to an evacuation on Bishop Street on July 23. The incident involved HFD and HECO responding to a reported fire.

HECO is in conflict with the Governor’s Energy Partner over a Japanese rival's plan to build a liquefied natural gas power plant and establish a new regulated utility in Oʻahu, which could end HECO's 135-year monopoly.

HECO will replace up to 100 aging utility poles along the Leeward Coast over the next three years, starting in late July.

HECO has reported an increase in electricity prices due to rising fuel costs, resulting in higher household and business bills. Simple steps can be taken to reduce overall costs.