When we are working on locations around Los Angeles, the logistics of power often dictate how quickly we can move. For years, the standard approach involved long cable runs from a tow-generator or dealing with the hum of a small gas genny tucked behind a sound blanket. However, as LED technology has advanced, our power needs have shifted. We are seeing more gaffers and DPs moving toward high-capacity lithium-ion batteries, such as the EcoFlow Delta series, to keep sets quiet and efficient.
Clean Audio and Constant Power
One of the most immediate benefits we notice on set is the silence. Traditional fuel generators usually sit around 70 to 90 decibels, which requires distance and heavy cabling to keep the sound mixer happy. A Portable Power Station like the EcoFlow operates almost silently.
This allows us to keep the power source right at the base of the stand or directly on a DIT cart. Because these units provide a pure sine wave output, we do not have to worry about the digital hum or flickering that can sometimes occur with inconsistent power sources. It simplifies the workflow for both the electric department and the sound team.
High-Output LEDs at Full Capacity
A common hurdle with high-powered fixtures like an ARRI SkyPanel or an Aputure 1200d is that standard V-mount batteries often cannot provide enough current to run them at 100 percent. They often force the light into a low-power mode. By using the AC outlet on a larger battery station, we can reach the full potential of these fixtures without needing a wall outlet.
For longer days, we find that chaining extra batteries or stepping up to a larger unit like the Delta Pro Ultra provides enough overhead to power a small footprint for the duration of the shoot.
Speed and Reliability on Location
In our industry, the ability to pivot quickly is a significant advantage. Being able to deploy power instantly without refueling stops or cable management helps keep the momentum of a shoot. These units also feature very fast recharge times, often hitting 80 percent in about an hour, which makes it easy to top them off during a lunch break.
Another technical detail we appreciate is the 0ms transfer time. Using a battery as a buffer for a DIT cart or a video village means that if a circuit elsewhere on set trips, your monitors and drives stay protected. It adds a layer of security for sensitive equipment that we did not always have in the past.
Flexibility and Indoor Use
Since there are no exhaust fumes or carbon monoxide concerns, we can safely use these power stations in basements, small hallways, or inside moving vehicles. This opens up a lot of possibilities for tight locations where a traditional generator would be a safety hazard. It also aligns with the growing movement toward more sustainable, green sets in the Los Angeles film community.
The Future of Battery Tech
The shift toward high-capacity battery banks is fundamentally changing how we manage power on location in Los Angeles. While lithium-ion units like the EcoFlow Delta series have already addressed noise and fumes, we are now seeing a new wave of innovation focused on reliability and density. The emergence of sodium-ion technology is particularly promising, as it maintains capacity in freezing temperatures and offers better safety profiles for tight interior rigs. We are also looking forward to the integration of solid-state batteries, which will eventually allow us to double our energy capacity without adding weight to the truck. With faster charging cycles and smarter management software, these power stations are moving beyond simple convenience and becoming a primary, sophisticated tool for the modern electric department.
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At Geronimo Creek, we enjoy seeing how these tools help crews work more effectively. If you are curious about how to integrate Portable Power Stations into your next rig or want to see these units in person, we are always here to help you find the right fit for your kit.
