Portable Battery Program

Program overview

To help reduce the impact of safety power outages on Medical Baseline customers, we offer extra support. PG&E's Portable Battery Program (PBP) provides backup batteries to qualifying customers.

Eligibility information

You may qualify for the PBP if you are a Medical Baseline customer who either:

• Lives in a High Fire-Threat District (as defined by this CPUC Fire Map).

OR

• Has experienced two or more Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS) since 2020.

In 2022, we expanded eligibility for the program and there is no longer a low-income requirement.

How it works

If you are pre-qualified, our program partners will reach out to conduct a phone or email assessment. You then may be matched with the best fully subsidized battery available for your specific needs. If approved for the program, a battery will be delivered to your home. The contractor who delivers the battery will give you instructions on how to use it.

Other support options

More PSPS resources are available if you rely on power for medical and independent living needs. For backup power options, and to find financing and retailers, visit our backup power page.

Disability Disaster Access and Resources Program

The Disability Disaster Access and Resources (DDAR) Program is a collaboration between PG&E and the California Foundation for Independent Living Centers. The program offers support to those with medical and independent living needs. This includes backup-power support. If you live in a Tier 2 or 3 High Fire-Threat District, or you have experienced two or more PSPS since 2020, you may be referred to the DDAR Program if:

• You do not qualify for the PBP but rely on assistive technology or durable medical equipment.

OR

• The power needs of your medical device(s) exceed portable battery capabilities.

Learn more by downloading our DDAR Program fact sheet (PDF, 99 KB).

Tips for safely operating your battery

Review your user manual and prepare your battery so it is ready to power medical devices if you lose power. Please reach out to the contractor who delivered your battery with any questions about how to use it. To safely operate your battery, please follow these guidelines:

• Do not plug in high-usage devices such as portable heaters, hair dryers or vacuum cleaners. These devices could quickly drain or damage your battery.
• Observe all input/output connection and extension cord ratings. This may avoid fire or electrical shock.
• Use in a ventilated area and do not obstruct fan openings on unit.
• Do not keep the power supply under the lid, as power supplies will get hot when in use.
• Keep your unit clean and dry and do not operate in wet conditions. Do not spill any liquids on the battery.
• Monitor the temperature of the battery. If the temperature is too high (113°F), it may result in a fire or explosion. If the temperature is too low (32°F), the battery performance may be reduced, or it may cease to work.
• Do not insert foreign objects into outputs or ventilation.

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