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Frequently Asked Questions
A PSPS, short for Public Safety Power Shutoff, is a process electric utilities use to deactivate power in high-risk conditions for safety purposes. We only take this step as a last line of defense to help protect communities and property during periods of heightened wildfire risk. A PSPS may be triggered by extreme weather conditions, such as strong winds and low humidity, posing risk such as damage to power lines, airborne debris impacting power infrastructure, and surrounding dry vegetation that could exacerbate wildfire hazards.
We will try to provide as much advance notice as possible. In a best-case scenario, we will send a warning notification 24-48 hours before a PSPS begins. However, if conditions are suddenly hazardous, we may need to shut off power with little or no notice.
Customers will receive PSPS notifications via emails, phone calls, texts, social media updates, mobile app notifications, and news releases. It is vital to maintain up-to-date contact information and download our mobile app for push notifications.
The duration of a PSPS will depend on the duration of extreme weather conditions and heightened risk. Once conditions improve, our team will begin the restoration process and inspect any equipment for damage before reenergizing power.
PSPS frequency varies, depending upon the severity of seasonal weather conditions.
Check our Emergency Preparedness Handbook for guidance on PSPS preparation or visit our How to Prepare for PSPS webpage.
We are working to expand support services for customers during emergencies. Check the “planning and resources” section of our Emergency Preparedness Handbook for additional resources.
View our Oahu outage map to keep up with the status of a PSPS and sign up to receive alerts when updates are released. You will see “PSPS” as the reason for the outage on the map. For Maui County and Hawaii Island, updates will be posted on our website and shared through news releases.
To update your contact information, log onto your online account or contact us through our customer service call centers. Visit the Customer Service page for more information on the call center in your area.
If you or someone in your care has a condition that requires special medication or life support systems, or if your medications require refrigeration, contact your doctor or pharmacist for information on how to handle emergencies and power outages.
Prepare in advance for power outages by reviewing our guidance for scheduled power outages and making a plan to address your medical requirements. This may involve ensuring readiness of a backup generator for electric medical equipment and maintaining a supply kit with a cooler for medicine storage. Share your plans with family and neighbors for additional support. Sign up for notifications on our website at hawaiianelectric.com/medicalneedsalerts.
