Simple plug-in solutions to avoid boredom, stay connected, and power through any blackout
⚡️ Power Gone Again? Here’s How to Stay Connected
There’s nothing more frustrating than sitting in the dark, bored, and cut off during a power cut. No TV. No Wi-Fi. No idea when the electricity is coming back.
Whether it’s a storm in Wexford or a grid issue in Dublin, blackouts are more common than most people think — and they can last hours.
But here’s the good news: you don’t need a full solar setup or expensive generator to stay connected. There are simple, affordable ways to keep your essentials powered, including your TV and internet router, with plug-and-play backup power.
💡 How Much Power Do You Actually Need During a Blackout?
Let’s break down the most common essentials:
| Appliance | Average Watts | Power Needed for 2 Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Wi-Fi Router | 10W | 20Wh |
| LED TV (32–40") | 60–80W | 120–160Wh |
| Smartphone Charging | 10–20W | 20Wh |
Total needed: ~200Wh for a basic 2-hour blackout setup. That’s well within the range of most entry-level portable power stations.
🔋 Best Plug-and-Play Backup Power Options for Blackouts
You don’t need any tools or wiring. These devices charge from your wall and are ready to go when the power drops.
✅ 1. Portable Power Station (200–300Wh)
- Just plug in your TV, Wi-Fi router, and phone charger
- Runs small appliances for 2–6 hours depending on load
- Rechargeable via wall socket, car, or optional solar panel
Top features to look for:
- AC sockets (standard 3-pin)
- USB-A and USB-C for phone/tablet charging
- LED display for battery level
🧠 Pro tip:
Choose a unit that supports pass-through charging so it stays plugged in and topped up 24/7.
🔌 Other Devices You Can Power in a Blackout
With a 200–300Wh power bank, you can also keep these running:
Smartphone and tablet
Small Bluetooth speaker or radio
LED lamp or emergency light
Laptop for remote working
Want more? Step up to a 500Wh or 1000Wh unit to power larger TVs, mini fridges, or multiple devices at once.
☀️ Bonus Option: Add a Solar Panel for Long Blackouts
If you live in a rural area or experience frequent outages, consider a solar-powered generator kit. These systems charge the power bank with sunlight — useful during multi-day outages or camping trips.
