If outages and Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS) are a regular part of life where you live, a permanent backup system can take the scramble out of it. The two main choices are a standby generator and a home battery.
How does a standby generator work?
A standby generator is permanently installed outside, runs on natural gas or propane, and starts on its own when the power goes out. An automatic transfer switch moves your home over to the generator and back when utility power returns. It can run as long as it has fuel, which suits multi-day outages. It needs a pad, a gas line sized for it, regular exercise runs and maintenance, and it makes noise when running.
How does a home battery work?
A home battery (for example Tesla Powerwall, Enphase or FranklinWH systems) stores energy and switches over automatically in an outage. It is quiet and needs no fuel, but run time is limited by its stored energy and what you power. Paired with solar, it can recharge during the day. Many systems back up a critical-loads panel (fridge, lights, internet, outlets) rather than the whole house; whole-home backup usually needs more battery capacity.
Which is better for California outages?
- Long outages, big loads, no solar: standby generators are usually the stronger fit.
- Have or want solar, quiet operation, daily savings: batteries fit well, especially under California's net billing rules for many PG&E, SCE and SDG&E customers (see solar and net billing).
- Budget backup: a portable generator with an inlet and interlock is often the lowest-cost safe option.
How much does it cost?
Standby generators and batteries depend heavily on size, fuel, location and the panel, so IES prices them from a site visit or photos. A portable generator inlet with interlock is $1,750 to $1,960.
About these prices: rough starting-at prices from the IES price book. The final price depends on what we find on site, your utility and your city or county. Estimates are free.
Common questions
Can a home battery power my whole house?
Sometimes, with enough battery capacity and the right setup. Many systems back up selected circuits instead. Large loads like central air, electric heat and EV charging drain batteries quickly.
Do standby generators need a permit?
Yes. Standby generators need electrical permits, and often gas and building permits as well, depending on your city or county.
General information for California homes under the California Electrical Code (based on the NEC). Local rules and inspectors can vary. Not a substitute for an on-site inspection. Never work inside a panel, at the meter or on live circuits.