Breathing Easier

The Palisadian-Post has partnered with locally founded environmental nonprofit Resilient Palisades to deliver a weekly “green tip” to our readers. This week’s tip was written by Doug Macmillan.

Generators are a great fallback in times of crisis, but they have some serious drawbacks. Given the carbon monoxide they emit, if not properly ventilated, they can poison or even kill people.

If you’re intent on having a backup in the event of blackout or disaster, consider upgrading to solar and battery storage. Consider installing solar panels with Resilient Palisades’ Pali Microgrid project, Phase I of which is a group purchasing program that will get you the best possible price. Solar plus storage is the 21st century way to prepare.

But even if you don’t have solar, you still have battery storage options, which can obviate the need for a generator.

Consider a silent lithium-ion battery power station. Goal Zero is one company that has a range of portable lithium battery power stations to meet your needs. This and other power stations are silent, maintenance-free, portable and never deadly.

Goal Zero power stations can be safely used inside your home to power medical devices, refrigerators, home appliances and USB devices to stay in touch with your loved ones. Unlike a generator, a power station is silent, requires no strength to start, will not need an oil change nor any other maintenance. And if you need, they are light enough to be carried upstairs.

You can charge a power station from a standard 110V outlet or from a portable solar panel when the blackout lasts for some time. They are ideal to take camping and will fit snugly in the back of your car. Home power security and camping flexibility—what a great combo.

Technology has advanced considerably in the last few years and we all stand to benefit. These power stations are sold out as a result of the Hurricane Ida. But if you place an order now, you’ll be better prepared for the next disaster.

Questions? Contact me directly at dougmacmillan1@me.com. Or, stop by the Resilient Palisades farmers market table in October, curbside of Starbucks.