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While a power-outage is unlikely to really effect your ability to drive in most cases, it never hurts to be prepared in the event of a long-term outage caused by a natural disaster— the same way you would keep nonperishable foods and candlesticks in your storage for example. While reserving your EV’s battery would be the best option, there are actually many different ways that you could remain on the road when the lights go out. Read more to learn about the steps you might want to consider as an EV owner for “just in case.”

Reserving your vehicle’s energy.

We understand that you may need to get certain places while the power is out and that you might be unsure about using the charge you have left in your vehicle. Conservation is important in a scenario such as a widespread power outage that may last for more than a day. Consider other modes of transportation if you are able, such as walking, riding a bicycle, catching a ride with someone who has access to fuel, or taking public transportation like the bus or a train. If these are things you are not able to do, fear not—there are other options to keep your EV on the road, even if the power goes out.

Drive to a neighboring county

Assuming your vehicle has some charge at least, you may consider taking your vehicle outside of the affected power outage area. It is unlikely that an entire state would see a power outage (then your EV will be the last of your problems), so consider driving to the city or county over where there is still power in order to charge your vehicle. This may not be as convenient as you are likely used to with many available options nearby, but if you are in a pinch this will work out great.

Some L3 commercial chargers will be unaffected

Use a L3 charger location app to see what chargers are still running in your area—little do some EV drivers know, but many DC Fast charging stations actually run off of stored solar power and can continue to serve customers ever during a power outage. Additionally, get to know where your Microgrids are located. Microgrids are small grids with stand-alone potential, which allows them to provide electricity during regional power outages. Critical services like hospitals and military bases will generally rely on microgrids, but you might be able to find a microgrid in your very own community or neighborhood. You can find out where the nearest one is to you by searching with your location here: https://clean-coalition.org/community-microgrids/

Any working outlet will do—consider a power generator

It might not be a bad idea to have an extra portable power generator on hand just for your EV, so that you can rest assure that you will be able to maintain a charge even if there is no power. Think about how some people might have an extra container of petrol in the garage for just in case— It only makes sense to have some kind of backup on hand for just the occasion you might need it.

We hope that this article was able to help ease any anxiety you might have about not being able to charge your vehicle in the event of a power outage. While such an occurrence is unlikely to happen, it is always good to be ready. With that said, you now have the tools and understanding of how to prepare yourself just in case.