Data connection during power outage

jblas16_1
Enthusiast - Level 1

Is there a backup power source for cell towers in case of a power outage? We’ve had a couple of outages this week and my phone shows 5G or LTE, but I cannot connect to the internet. 

Basically, is this what I should expect (no data) until power is restored? 

1 Solution
Ann154
Community Leader
Community Leader

@jblas16_1 wrote:

Is there a backup power source for cell towers in case of a power outage? We’ve had a couple of outages this week and my phone shows 5G or LTE, but I cannot connect to the internet. 

Basically, is this what I should expect (no data) until power is restored? 


Usually there is a backup power source of either a battery system or generator or a combination of both. It really depends on location and if that particular tower handles critical communication traffic. Even with the backup power systems operating, the tower itself might not be functioning at full capacity. The backup system might only be designed for a half load of the normal tower. The landline infrastructure serving the tower might also be working at a reduced capacity because of the power outage. 

You should get with your local power utility for updates on power restoration efforts. They would have a better estimate for power restoration. The Verizon and other cellular companies would be asking the power company the same question. 

I'm most definitely NOT a VZW employee. If a post answered your question, please mark it as the answer.

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2 Replies
Ann154
Community Leader
Community Leader

@jblas16_1 wrote:

Is there a backup power source for cell towers in case of a power outage? We’ve had a couple of outages this week and my phone shows 5G or LTE, but I cannot connect to the internet. 

Basically, is this what I should expect (no data) until power is restored? 


Usually there is a backup power source of either a battery system or generator or a combination of both. It really depends on location and if that particular tower handles critical communication traffic. Even with the backup power systems operating, the tower itself might not be functioning at full capacity. The backup system might only be designed for a half load of the normal tower. The landline infrastructure serving the tower might also be working at a reduced capacity because of the power outage. 

You should get with your local power utility for updates on power restoration efforts. They would have a better estimate for power restoration. The Verizon and other cellular companies would be asking the power company the same question. 

I'm most definitely NOT a VZW employee. If a post answered your question, please mark it as the answer.

SynthpopAddict
Champion - Level 3

I have read that during power outages, cell towers will run only essential processes, so data service gets shut off.

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I'm not a Verizon employee, just another customer trying to help.