Bridge a blackout without a full solar build
If you only need to get through power cuts, a portable power station or small battery backup can run the essentials. It is quieter than a generator and gives off no fumes.
How
- List only the loads you need in an outage: lights, phones, radio, router, a medicine fridge or medical device (see power-1 and safety-18).
- Size the battery with the backup runtime calculator in the safety module, then pick a unit with that usable capacity. Do not exceed its rated output (PG&E).
- Choose a lithium iron phosphate (LFP) unit certified to a recognised safety standard (power-11), and add a folding solar panel so it can recharge.
- Keep it charged before forecast storms. Ready.gov advises planning other power sources to charge devices and charging phones before an outage.
- Charge and store it in a cool, ventilated spot away from exits and out of bedrooms (power-16). If it smokes or swells, get out and call the fire service (power-27).
- If you also use a generator, run it outdoors at least 20 ft (about 6 m) from openings. Connect it only through an approved inlet and interlock or transfer switch, never into a socket (CPSC).
- When power returns, unplug sensitive electronics or use surge protection devices (Ready.gov).
- To grow later, size a full system from power-1, or a generator for critical loads with continuity-8.
Safety: Never run a fuel generator indoors, in a garage or near open windows. Carbon monoxide can kill in minutes.
Do these first
Sources
- Choosing and Safely Using a Home Backup Power Source. Pacific Gas and Electric Company (US utility example), accessed 2026-11
- Power Outage Safety Tips (Ready.gov fact sheet, hosted copy). Ready.gov (FEMA), via Cal Poly Pomona Emergency Management, accessed 2026-11
- Portable Generator Safety Alert. US Consumer Product Safety Commission, accessed 2026-11
- Residential Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS). Fire and Rescue NSW (Australia), accessed 2026-11