What's Being Discussed
The Hawaii Public Utilities Commission (PUC) is holding a public hearing on Lānaʻi to take comments on a request by the Hawaiian Electric Companies to raise electricity rates. The three companies involved — Hawaiian Electric (O'ahu), Hawai'i Electric Light (Hawai'i Island), and Maui Electric (Maui, Moloka'i, and Lāna'i) — filed this proposal on July 17, 2026.

The companies are asking to increase their combined annual revenues by approximately $170 million (5.3%) statewide.
For Lāna'i and Moloka'i customers specifically, the increase would come to about $11 more per month on a typical residential electric bill once fully in effect.
The increase would roll out in two phases: January 1, 2027 and January 1, 2028.
The companies say the increases are driven by inflation adjustments, changes to depreciation rates for certain power equipment, and higher insurance costs.

Decisions Expected
No final decision will be made at this hearing. This is a public input session where residents can ask questions and give testimony. The PUC will consider all comments as part of its formal review before making a ruling on whether to approve, modify, or deny the rate increase request.

Who Should Pay Attention

Lāna'i residents and businesses who pay electric bills to Maui Electric Company
Anyone concerned about the cost of electricity on Lāna'i
Community members who want their voice heard before a decision is made

Written comments can also be emailed to puc.comments@hawaii.gov or mailed to the PUC. Reference Docket No. 2026-0162 in all submissions.