HomeMy WebLinkAbout2018-05-29 HELCO Poles Damaged, Outages Reported -- press release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Rhea Lee-Moku, 808.969.0273
rhea.lee-moku@hawaiielectriclight.com
Eruption damages more than 400 poles, extended power
outages will affect lower Puna
HILO, May 29, 2018 – The spread of erupting lava has destroyed Hawai‘i Electric Light
equipment, causing outages in areas of lower Puna. Some of those outages may last
for an extended time.
Continued lava activity has damaged and destroyed more than 400 poles and related
equipment in the lower Puna area. Where possible, power is being rerouted to continue
electrical service. Destruction of some utility equipment has cut off all electric
connection to the following areas:
Kapoho, including Vacationland Hawai‘i and Kapoho Beach Lots
Lanipuna Gardens
Leilani Estates from Moku Street to Mohala Street including all connecting
roads
Areas along Highway 132
The company is evaluating its options to serve Vacationland Hawai‘i and Kapoho Beach
Lots areas once eruption and lava flow activities cease. Options to serve these areas
include a line extension over areas not impacted by lava, installing taller poles to bridge
areas impacted by lava, or creating a small microgrid. The final plan cannot be selected
until the area is stable.
Working with the guidance of Civil Defense officials, the company will continue to
monitor the eruption and may change its plans, depending on the course and extent of
the lava activity in the area. All work to re-energize areas that lost power due to lava
activity will only be performed after a damage assessment is complete and it is safe to
do so.
Everyone should treat lines, transformers, and other utility equipment as energized even
if the equipment is on the ground. Stay away from downed or low-hanging power lines.
Assume they are energized and dangerous. If you see someone injured after touching a
downed power line, call 9-1-1 for help.
With the shutdown of the Puna Geothermal Venture plant, Hawai‘i Electric Light still has
sufficient power generation available to meet the island’s needs.
The Hawai‘i Electric Light website https://www.hawaiielectriclight.com/lava provides the
latest information for customers affected by the eruption and for those who may have
questions about billing and service during the emergency. Customers also may call
(808) 969-6999 for questions regarding their electric account.