Yes! Base members have two ways to use a portable generator alongside their battery system:
Available Now
Members can connect a portable generator to their home by installing a generator interlock on their main electrical panel. Learn more here about how this works. Note that the interlock system prevents simultaneous operation of the generator and battery at full home capacity.
This setup allows the generator to power your home during a prolonged outage if the Base battery is fully drained.
Note: This setup does not recharge the battery — it only powers the home directly.
Coming Fall 2025
Base is launching a new version of the battery with an optional generator plug add-on (available for an additional $1,000). Learn more here about how this works.
This add-on allows a portable generator to plug directly into the battery, unlocking deeper backup functionality.
The add-on enhances compatibility, enabling power management between generator and battery for improved operational efficiency.
It supports the use of optimal generators rated at 240V with an L14-30 plug, adhering to the required wattage minimum of 3 kW.
Benefits of the Upcoming Integration
Recharge the Base battery using a generator
Power your home and recharge the battery at the same time
Smarter load management between generator and battery
Extended backup coverage — ideal for homes using under 70 kWh/day.
During outages, the system uses the Generator Recharge Port to provide a steady 3kW to power the home, supplemented by the battery if necessary.
Generator compatibility:
Required: Portable generators with 240V output and L14-30R receptacle
Not compatible: Whole-home standby generators
Note: the battery has a 3000W limit. Getting a larger generator will not change this limit.- Generators must provide a 240V output to ensure compatibility with the Base Power system. Generators with lower outputs, such as certain low-capacity standby models, are not compatible.
For seamless operation, the generator should contain an L14-30 plug type, which ensures proper electrical connections along with the 240V output.
The 3000W limit refers to the maximum wattage the battery can accept from any generator; exceeding this limit will not improve efficiency.
Fuel efficiency should also be considered for prolonged outages. Larger generators with sufficient fuel capacities offer extended runtime even if daily power use is less than 72 kWh.