Hawaiian Electric Deploys Acoustic Detectors to Protect Maui Seabirds
Hawaiian Electric is expanding its environmental monitoring efforts on Maui by installing advanced acoustic technology to mitigate the impact of power lines on local wildlife. This initiative is a key component of the company’s broader strategy to collect critical data for its Maui Island Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP).
New Acoustic Monitoring Initiative
Starting Monday, April 20, 2026, Hawaiian Electric will initiate installing up to 125 acoustic seabird detectors on utility poles across various locations on Maui. The installation phase is scheduled to run through Monday, November 30, with operate occurring between 8 a.m. And 4 p.m., weather permitting.
The primary goal of these detectors is to identify specific locations where seabird collisions with power lines may be occurring. To ensure privacy and data accuracy, the devices are designed to capture only the sounds and vibrations caused by avian contact; they will not record human voices or ambient sounds. According to Maui Now, electric service will not be impacted during these installations.
Field Operations and Privacy
The installation process involves a coordinated effort between Hawaiian Electric personnel and SWCA Environmental Consultants. Key details regarding the field work include:
- Identification: Personnel will wear SWCA Environmental Consultant branded shirts or vests.
- Access: Work is performed at the utility pole. While installers will not request entry into homes or businesses, they may enter private yards to access poles, in which case they will notify occupants first.
- Specialized Assistance: Specially trained dogs may be deployed to assist locate downed birds and determine the affected species.
The Broader Conservation Strategy
This acoustic project is part of a multi-year data collection effort. Hawaiian Electric first announced its Maui Island Habitat Conservation Plan in November 2022 to address potential harm to protected species caused by utility infrastructure.
Previous Data Collection Efforts
Before the deployment of acoustic detectors, the company utilized other specialized technologies to map avian behavior:
- Radar Systems: Beginning in August 2023, a subcontractor, Hamer Environmental, used truck-mounted radar systems to detect seabird flight paths and elevation data.
- Strategic Locations: Radar monitoring focused on high-priority areas, including Hana, Wailua, Nahiku, Keanae, and Paukukalo Beach.
- Timeline: Initial radar data collection was expected to run through 2024, with continued efforts extending through the end of 2025.
Key Takeaways for Residents
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Installation Dates | April 20, 2026 – Nov 30, 2026 |
| Equipment | Up to 125 acoustic detectors |
| Purpose | Identify seabird collision locations for the HCP |
| Impact | No interruption to electric service |
Looking Forward
Hawaiian Electric continues to work toward securing necessary permits from the State of Hawai’i Division of Forestry and Wildlife and the US Fish and Wildlife Service. By combining radar flight path data with real-time acoustic collision monitoring, the company aims to develop a comprehensive conservation plan that minimizes the environmental footprint of its electrical grid on Maui’s seabird populations.
For more information or questions regarding this work, customers can contact Hawaiian Electric at hawaiianelectric.com/customerservice.
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