Hawaiian Electric unveils $350M wildfire safety plan that could raise customer bills

HONOLULU (KHON2) – Hawaiian Electric has released a more detailed version of its three-year wildfire safety strategy, aimed at reducing wildfire risks and strengthening grid resilience across the state, with a particular focus on Maui, which it identifies as the area of highest risk.

The $350 million plan, filed with the Public Utilities Commission, proposes major investments in technology, infrastructure, and fire hazard mitigation, along with increased community collaboration.

If approved, residential electric bills could rise as early as 2026:

• Oahu: $1 per month
• Hawaii Island: $3 per month
• Maui County: $5 per month

More than half of the proposed budget, approximately $181 million, is earmarked for Maui County, including $137 million in work planned for 2025 alone.

The goal is to reduce the risk of wildfires sparked by utility equipment through a multi-pronged approach:

• Grid Hardening & Vegetation Management: Upgrades like covered conductors, stronger poles, and expanded hazard tree removal in high-risk areas.
• Undergrounding Lines: A pilot project in Lahaina will relocate two miles of overhead lines underground, with guidance from a community working group.
• Technology Upgrades: More weather stations, AI-assisted hazard-detection cameras, and a wildfire-focused Watch Office staffed with a meteorologist.
• Operational Improvements: A wildfire risk model will inform real-time decisions and fine-tune Public Safety Power Shutoff events.
• Community Engagement: Continued support for local safety events, partnerships with organizations on firebreaks and vegetation clearing, and expert working group meetings.

“We understand that any type of bill impact is obviously not what we would wish for,” said Darren Pai, spokesperson for Hawaiian Electric. “But it does take investment in the system. The objective is to make the system safer, to protect the public, and to fulfill our commitment to public safety.”

Some relief may be possible. A bill passed by the state Legislature, SB 897, would allow the Public Utilities Commission to authorize “securitization,” or the use of long-term bonds to fund safety improvements.

These would appear as a line item on customer bills but could cost less than traditional financing. The measure is currently under review by Governor Josh Green.

The Public Utilities Commission is reviewing the filing.

If approved, customers can expect the first changes to begin in 2026.