Hawaiian Electric asks Big Island customers to reduce electricity use

The unavailability of two large generators and unexpected issues at an independent power producer that supplies power to the grid are prompting the need for Big Island customers of Hawaiian Electric to reduce their electricity use tonight.

Hawaiian Electric asks Big Island customers to conserve power from 5 to 9 p.m.

Hawaiian Electric’s steam generator Hill 6 is offline because of emergency repairs and annual maintenance work continues on the Keahole Power Plant steam turbine. In addition, one unit at Hāmākua Energy remains offline because of unexpected issues. Wind resources are also forecast to be lower than usual.

Combined, these units usually supply about 66 megawatts of power.

The evening peak demand is when electricity use is highest. Using less electricity from 5 to 9 p.m. helps ensure enough power is available during those hours.

Conservation methods include turning off air conditioners and unnecessary lighting, shutting off water heaters and delaying activities such as cooking, showering, laundry and dishwashing. Larger commercial customers, including government, hotels and retail, were also asked to voluntarily reduce electricity use.

If necessary, rolling 30-minute outages will be initiated to protect the electric system and prevent loss of power to an even greater number of customers.

Hawaiian Electric will notify customers in advance through social media. Check @HIElectricLight on Twitter for updates.