Kunoa North

The world is rapidly evolving. Every day, there are new digital discoveries. New devices are requiring more bandwidth. Faster internet speeds have become a necessity. And artificial intelligence is being integrated into more tasks than ever before, making reliable, high-speed broadband the key to keeping pace with these changes and reimagining our future.

Hawaiian Telcom secured a total project investment of $87 million for a new interisland fiber-optic cable system to upgrade and strengthen Hawai'i's internet infrastructure. This includes a $37 million grant awarded by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) and a $50 million company match to fully fund the $87 million project.

It's the first northern route to further support Hawaiian Telcom's $1.8 billion investment to create a geographically diverse and resilient interisland network to fully fiber enable the entire state. It will involve laying new fiber optic cables on the ocean floor between the islands and adding six landing sites to link pivotal areas. Yet we know we must do this responsibly and respectfully. Prepare for the future, while preserving our cultural heritage and history. The result will be a more resilient internet network that benefits everyone in our islands, benefitting Hawai'i families and businesses.

Connect Kākou is a State of Hawai'i initiative designed to make high-speed, reliable internet service more accessible and affordable, and support digital equity in our islands. Our state government is investing $400 million in federal funds to expand our broadband infrastructure. Hawaiian Telcom's Kūnoa North project supplements these other projects to help create a robust broadband system in our islands.

Fiber optic cables provide ultra-fast, high-capacity internet connections — even faster than satellite systems like Starlink.

Safer to Use

Fiber optic cables transmit data using light through hair-like glass fiber cables. They do not emit electromagnetic radiation or shed chemicals. And, unlike electrical cables, they do not generate electromagnetic fields.

Fast Data Transfers for Everyday Use

Fiber can transfer more data than satellites and is ideal for streaming, telehealth, remote work, and distance learning—especially when many in your home or business need to be online at the same time to collaborate and share ideas.

Not Prone to Weather Impact

Fiber is more reliable and less susceptible to weather or physical obstructions, while rain, trees, or buildings can disrupt satellite signals.

Low Latency

Fiber offers low latency or delays in data transmission. Fiber enables near-instant data transmission. This is essential for artificial intelligence applications and real-time applications such as video calls, remote operation of medical equipment, and online gaming.

Future-Proof Solution

Fiber infrastructure can support future bandwidth demands with minimal upgrades making it a long-term solution. Satellites have limited capacity and lifespans.

Middle Mile: The middle mile is the backbone of broadband. This includes interisland undersea and land cables. Kūnoa North is Hawaiian Telcom's middle mile project.

Another company, Ocean Networks, based in Georgia, is also engaged in a middle mile project called Hawaiian Islands Fiber Link. This project is overseen by the University of Hawai'i with support from the Research Corporation of the University of Hawai'i.