Hawaiian Electric has received the 2026 Bronze Emergency Management Award from Chartwell Inc. for its public safety communications related to its Public Safety Power Shutoff program.

The utility launched its PSPS program in 2024 to reduce wildfire risk during extreme weather conditions in areas with dry vegetation near electrical equipment, according to a news release.

The program uses a multi-channel notification system to alert customers on Oahu, Hawaii island, Maui, Molokai and Lanai of potential or active power shutoffs. Alerts are sent through text messages, email and voice calls.