For renters
You rent. The outage doesn’t care.
You can’t install a home battery or a generator in a rental, but you can still keep your phone, Wi-Fi, lights, a CPAP, and even your fridge running during an outage. Here’s how, without wasting money on the wrong size.
No installation
Portable power stations plug in like a big power bank. Nothing to wire, no landlord approval.
Charge it before the storm
Keep it topped up. When the power goes out, plug in what matters.
Add folding solar panels
On a long outage, portable panels on a balcony or window can recharge it during the day.
Pick the right size
Size is the most common mistake. Too small and it dies before the power comes back; too big and you paid for capacity you never use.
Small power station (~1 kWh)
Phones, Wi-Fi, lights, a CPAP for a night
Recommendations coming soonMid-size power station (~2–3 kWh)
Plus a fridge for most of a day
Recommendations coming soonLarge / expandable (~3–6 kWh + solar panels)
Fridge, sump pump and essentials, recharged by portable panels
Recommendations coming soonSome links on this page are affiliate links: if you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. We only list products we would recommend to a neighbor.
Lower your bill too: community solar
In Illinois, renters in ComEd and Ameren territory can subscribe to a community solar project: nothing goes on your roof, and you get credits on your electric bill. It won’t keep your lights on during an outage, but it can lower what you pay the rest of the year. Read the subscription terms (length, exit fee, savings rate) before you sign.
Questions? Ask us in the form, we’ll explain your options.
Want to know exactly what size you need?
Use the backup calculator (pick what must stay on), or ask us. We’ll answer renters too, for free.