Tolocar/Backup power system for shared spaces

▼This page is part of the Tolocar project by GIZ.This content is open edit, which means we encourage you to edit and reuse all materials while respecting its license.

This manual shows how to create an autonomous power station with a modular system that can be used for common public spaces and can be scaled up or down depending on the needs of each specific situation.

The autonomous charging station is designed to provide electricity primarily to common spaces. In particular, such a station can be used to meet the energy needs of common areas of condominiums, utilities, or public organizations. It can be used to provide power for both lighting of common spaces and video surveillance systems, burglar and fire alarms, electromagnetic door locks, intercoms, network equipment, etc. for a typical entrance of a 9-10-storey building.

Amid ongoing missile attacks and the destruction of Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, prolonged power outages remain a serious threat. In response to these challenges, a new initiative was launched to help Ukrainian communities build resilience against blackouts. The project includes an open-access video guide and a detailed instruction manual for creating autonomous charging stations for apartment buildings and shared spaces.

Tolocar served as the initiator, consultant, and coordinator of the project, making technical knowledge about backup power systems accessible to a wide audience. The initiative was supported by GIZ SENECA Green Network of Europe, Caucasus, Central Asia, and Afghanistan, and implemented by Ukrainian partners — BRIT NGO and Ivano-Frankivsk National Technical University of Oil and Gas (IFNTUNG).

The project provides practical steps for assembling reliable backup power systems, helping communities meet basic needs such as charging communication devices, maintaining emergency lighting, and powering safety systems during outages.

The initiative is based on the belief that maker culture and collaboration are key to Ukraine’s sustainable recovery. Open access to technical knowledge allows organizations and citizens to independently create safe and reliable backup power systems.

To ensure broad and safe use among technical specialists, condominium associations (OSBBs), and municipal services, two main resources were developed:

🎥 Video Guide — a step-by-step manual for practitioners with basic electrical knowledge. It demonstrates how to correctly assemble and maintain a backup power system for shared spaces and how to adapt solutions to the specific needs of each building.

📗 PDF Manual — a detailed illustrated reference with diagrams, schematics, and complete assembly instructions, ensuring the safe connection of all system components.

The modular structure of these resources allows users to scale the system by adding batteries or solar panels according to local needs. This provides a practical tool for OSBBs and municipalities aiming to establish reliable autonomous power sources during crises.

➡️ Access the materials and learn how to build resilient power source for apartment buildings and shared spaces in English and Ukrainian:

EN Manual for self-installation of autonomous charging stations

UA Інструкція з самостійного монтажу автономних зарядних станцій

PDF Manual English

PDF Manual Ukrainian