After a multi-day power outage during Hurricane Fiona, the author developed an affordable, layered, and environmentally friendlier backup power system. It combines a portable solar-rechargeable power station, a car inverter utilizing his hybrid vehicle, and a quiet inverter generator to ensure power for various durations and needs.
The author recounts his experience during Hurricane Fiona in 2022, where a multi-day power outage in Nova Scotia highlighted the critical need for reliable backup power. Dissatisfied with noisy, polluting gas generators and expensive whole-house solutions like Tesla Powerwalls or rooftop solar, he devised a cost-effective, three-tiered green power strategy. His solution includes: 1. A Jackery Explorer 2000 v2 portable power station (2,042 Wh, 2,200W output) bundled with two 100W solar panels. This unit handles cooking small appliances, charging devices, and occasional heating, providing about a day of moderate use and recharging partially via solar. 2. A Twing 1000W car inverter connected directly to his Toyota Prius C's 12V battery. This allows his hybrid car to serve as a substantial power source, capable of charging multiple electronics and smaller battery packs, especially useful after dark. 3. A Maxpeedingrods 2300W inverter generator. This gas-powered unit is a quiet, efficient last resort, light enough to be portable. It can charge the Jackery and power appliances when solar isn't viable, providing long-term backup. This layered approach offers peace of mind, minimizes fuel consumption, and provides portable power that can even be shared with others. The author also emphasizes general storm preparedness, like securing property and having basic supplies, in addition to this power strategy.
