Electric Upgrades at Wailuku Substation to Impact Traffic

Maui Electric Company upgrades. File photo by Wendy Osher.

Maui Electric will be making upgrades at its Wailuku Substation on Lower Main Street on Saturday, Oct. 8, from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The work will result in a road closure and traffic detour along Lower Main Street from Mill Street to Kaniela Street.  Electrical service to the area will not be impacted.

Company representatives say the project is part of Maui Electric’s continued efforts to modernize the island’s electrical system for more reliable and resilient service.

The Wailuku Substation on Lower Main services about 3,700 customers in the area.

The work consists of upgrading electrical equipment, including a larger transformer and circuit breaker, which requires heavy transport equipment and a crane. The new transformer – a piece of electrical equipment that changes voltage or energy levels for residential and business use – will have a larger capacity to maintain the anticipated growth and energy demands in the area. The circuit breaker allows the power to be turned on or off as required.

“Thank you for your patience and understanding as we make these important upgrades to our island’s aging electrical system,” said Mike Grider, manager of engineering at Maui Electric. “Such improvements are part of our overall efforts to meet the growing energy needs of the island, while ensuring your lights are on when you need it.”