Rolling Blackout Strategy: How to Conserve Electricity in East Honolulu

Power Outage Alert in O‘ahu

Hawaiian Electric Company has issued a warning to customers on O‘ahu about the potential for rolling blackouts over the next few days . The risk of rolling Power outages due to reduced generation has been lowered , but customers are still being asked to conserve electricity to prevent shortages . The rolling blackouts may begin around 10 p.m. in select areas of the island due to an unexpected shutdown of a 208 - megawatt power plant operated by Kalaeloa Partners the largest independently - owned power generator on O‘ahu.

In response to the potential outages , the Honolulu Board of Water Supply is also asking customers to conserve water , especially those from the Leeward Coast to Kahala and Mililani . The board plans to reduce pumping capacity to lower electrical demand when pumping water . Customers are advised to only use water for essential purposes such as cooking , drinking , and personal hygiene , and to avoid non - essential uses like car washing , watering plants , and doing laundry.

The outages are a result of the unexpected loss of the 208 - megawatt plant operated by Kalaeloa Partners , which went offline after a necessary underground pipe ruptured . Hawaiian Electric is working to bring generating units back online and is urging customers to reduce their electricity usage , especially during peak evening hours from 5 to 9 p.m. Customers are advised to turn off air conditioners , unnecessary lighting , water heaters , pumps , and to shift activities like cooking and laundry to the daytime.

The rotating outages are expected to last approximately 30 minutes in different areas of the island , with specific neighborhoods being impacted in a particular order . The utility company is directing resources towards emergency repairs to restore full capacity as soon as possible , although Kalaeloa Partners estimates repairs could take up to three days . Customers are encouraged to stay updated on the situation through Hawaiian Electric 's social media channels.

As the situation continues to develop , it is essential for customers to heed the conservation advice provided by Hawaiian Electric and the Board of Water Supply to minimize the impact of potential rolling blackouts and water shortages . By working together to reduce electricity and water usage , residents of O‘ahu can help alleviate strain on the grid and ensure that essential services remain available for all.