Backup & Power Solutions

When utility power is lost, traffic lights can go dark, creating unsafe conditions for drivers, pedestrians, and first responders. Backup power systems ensure signals continue to operate, maintaining traffic flow and reducing the likelihood of accidents. For ITS infrastructure, these systems prevent major disruptions that could bring a corridor or even an entire city to a standstill.

Western Systems offers both Battery Backup Systems (BBS) and HyMax Fuel Cell systems. BBS units provide reliable short- to medium-term power, ideal for keeping intersections operational during routine outages. HyMax Fuel Cell systems extend reliability with over five days of runtime, delivering clean hydrogen power with zero emissions. Together, these solutions enable agencies to select the best fit for their needs, ranging from brief interruptions to extended emergencies.

Battery backup systems are designed to handle outages lasting from a few hours to a full day, depending on the cabinet load and battery size. They keep critical components, such as controllers, conflict monitors, and communication devices, powered until utility service is restored. Agencies looking for longer runtimes can pair BBS with HyMax Fuel Cell for extended coverage. 

As part of its commitment to improving emergency response and transportation system resilience, Caltrans conducted a formal lab evaluation of the system at its Translab facility in Sacramento. The test was led by the Electrical Quality Assurance and Source Inspection (EQASI) branch, which confirmed uninterrupted operation for 5 days and 18 hours under a consistent electrical load, a major increase from the 4-hour average provided by traditional battery backup systems.

The HyMax Fuel Cell delivers eco-friendly hydrogen power with zero emissions, aligning with Vision Zero and sustainability initiatives. Its five-day runtime ensures intersections and ITS assets stay online during extended utility outages, supporting disaster preparedness and emergency response. For agencies focused on resiliency and environmental goals, fuel cell technology is a future-ready option.

Backup power solutions do more than keep lights on. They also stabilize voltage, prevent power surges, and protect sensitive electronics in signal cabinets. By supplying clean, uninterrupted power, both battery backup and fuel cell systems extend the life of controllers, detection systems, and communication devices, reducing long-term maintenance costs.

Western Systems offers a bypass switch with an electrical interlock, allowing maintenance teams to safely perform service without interrupting power to the intersection. This feature ensures continuous operation, even during testing or repairs, giving agencies confidence that their traffic signals won’t go offline during routine maintenance.

The choice depends on outage frequency, duration, and community goals. Battery backup systems provide dependable coverage for everyday utility interruptions, while HyMax Fuel Cell supports extended resiliency, sustainability, and emergency preparedness. Many agencies choose to deploy both for layered reliability, ensuring signals stay on no matter the scenario.