In late July 2026, The Honolulu Star-Advertiser reported that Kakaʻako's energy needs had outrun what the local grid was able to provide.

Per state filings reported by Hoodline, the rebuild plan starts with a new transformer and switchgear at the Kewalo substation, then runs new ductlines along Ala Moana Boulevard and through Koʻula, Auahi, Coral and Pohukaina streets, with Phase One beginning in 2026 and final extensions into the Pohukaina site in 2028.

The four-phase fix:

  • Phase 1 (2026): The anchor — a new transformer and switchgear go in at the Kewalo substation.
  • Phase 2 (late 2026–early 2027): Crews begin laying new underground duct runs, starting along the Ala Moana Boulevard corridor.
  • Phase 3 (through mid-2027): Trenching pushes deeper into the district — Koʻula, Auahi, Coral — toward the master-planned blocks.
  • Phase 4 (2028): Service finally reaches the Pohukaina parcels, where the affordable towers have been waiting at the end of the line.

Updates to follow as they become available.