For more than forty years, Du-Watts Electric has served Maui. When the Lahaina wildfires destroyed homes and displaced families, owner Derek Akiona and his team stepped forward to help. With deep roots in Lahaina and family still living there, the work meant something more. It was about helping neighbors find their way home again.
Du-Watts Electric helped build Kīpūola Kauhale and Ka La‘i Ola, providing the electrical systems that power every home and community space. Derek also sponsored a home at Kīpūola Kauhale and contributed to community events at Ka La‘i Ola, including the recent Summer Bash, helping residents and families reconnect and celebrate during recovery.
At Kīpūola Kauhale, Derek’s crew handled the full electrical work for 64 new homes, along with the kitchens and community center, ensuring that every space was safe, functional, and ready for families to move in. These homes now serve people transitioning off the streets, giving them stability and a foundation to rebuild their lives and their economic mobility.
At Ka La‘i Ola, Du-Watts Electric supported the installation of modular homes that will house up to 1,500 residents. Their technical skill and problem-solving helped power one of the nation's largest recovery housing efforts.
“We’re not just only here just to collect these paychecks, but we want to be an asset to the community. I think it’s important to just get back in and get people back to living a normal life. The rebuild is on its way, and we’re excited to be part of it.”
— Derek Akiona, Owner, Du-Watts Electric
