Don’t Forget the Generators

PlanWireless is amazed at how many cell site applications we see where the back-up power component is not shown on the plans and not mentioned in the application.  For the record, every cell site must have back-up power in case the electric utility goes down.  Larger sites usually have a generator, powered by either diesel or propane.

Now, there’s nothing inherently wrong about diesel or propane; they just should require disclosure.  They also require standby tanks for the diesel or propane which are also often not shown or disclosed in applications.  A diesel generator can be very noisy, so they may cause noise impacts in residential neighborhoods when they are tested every week or two.  Putting a generator inside a shelter may be acceptable, as long as it is properly vented (e.g., an exhaust fan).  All generators are fire and/or explosion risks, so fire personnel should be reviewing the plans for these facilities.

Smaller cell sites can use battery packs or UPS.  This is a very expensive way to provide back-up power.  What most local governments don’t know – and don’t do – is the enforcement of a federal law requiring registration of all sites with batteries with the local fire department.  All cell sites have at least some – if not a lot – of batteries inside a shelter or a cabinet.  Once again, venting is mandatory.

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Kreines & Kreines, Inc.
58 Paseo Mirasol, Tiburon, CA 94920
Phone: (415) 435-9214
Fax: (415) 435-1522
e-mail: mail@planwireless.com