KIUC Continues Repair Work and Restores Thousands of Customers

LĪHUʻE, KAUAʻI — Kaua‘i Island Utility Cooperative was able to restore more than 6,000 customers as of 4:30 pm today in portions of Kapa‘a, Līhu‘e, Kōloa, Po‘ipū, and Waimea. Both Kaua‘i Veterans Memorial Hospital and Samuel Mahelona Memorial Hospital are energized, and crews are working to energize Wilcox Medical Center this evening. At the time of this release, approximately 25% of KIUC’s members have been restored, compared to 10% from yesterday’s report.

Latest Activity

In addition to power restorations, today’s workplan included completion of repairs to the Līhu‘e Substation as well as completing drone inspections of Līhu‘e distribution lines.

Approximately 63% of KIUC’s transmission lines are now repaired and energized. 

Upcoming Plans

Damage assessments: Distribution lines in Kōloa will be inspected, along with clearing of vegetation on transmission lines from Kapa‘a to the north shore.

Restoration: Recognizing the need to restore power to critical infrastructure as quickly as possible, KIUC will prioritize restoration of those facilities, as well as high-density population areas. Restoration of other areas will be attempted as they are deemed ready for energization.

Mutual aid: The first Hawaiian Electric crews are expected to arrive on Thursday, September 10 to assist with damage assessments and help determine what additional supplies and equipment is needed. Trucks and other equipment will arrive on a barge on Friday.

Additional Information

KIUC has suspended collections activities for delinquent accounts. The timing of resumption of collections activities will be evaluated once Hurricane Lowell restoration is completed.

Safety note: Some members are using gas-powered generators to power their homes and businesses. Please note the following generator safety guidance: Keep generators outdoors and at least 20 feet away from your home, with the exhaust pointed away from doors, windows and vents to prevent deadly carbon monoxide from entering. Never plug a generator directly into a household outlet; use properly rated extension cords or a professionally installed transfer switch to prevent dangerous back feeding onto utility lines. Keep the generator dry, allow it to cool before refueling, and follow all manufacturer instructions for safe operation.

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