About Backup Power
Yes, but only for a very short period of time. Typically, batteries are sufficient for up to two hours. Long-duration batteries are prohibitively expensive, making backup generators as a better solution for outages exceeding two hours.
Batteries are less expensive if you do not need to run on backup power for more than a couple of hours. If you need to run longer, then a fuel-based generator is required.
Backup generators are very seldomly used, and when properly maintained a top-quality generator can easily last 25 years.
Yes, but we wouldn’t recommend it. First, for some installations (such as Life Safety) there are stringent regulatory, service, maintenance, and reporting requirements that are result in fines and penalties if not performed properly, or could even cause your operating license to be revoked. Most maintenance staff are already too thinly staffed and overworked to add another responsibility, especially one as critical as energy.
Yes, for Life Safety purposes. Life Safety applications include fire alarm systems, emergency & exit lighting, smoke detectors, sprinkler pumps, elevator controls, critical communication systems, and critical life support systems such as ventilators. Some states require nursing homes to have full-facility backup power to keep residents safe during inclement weather and other disasters.
The following electrical systems are consider Life Safety: fire alarm systems, emergency lighting, smoke detectors, sprinkler pumps, elevator controls, and critical communication systems, as well as life support equipment.
https://resources.impactfireservices.com/fire-and-life-safety-systems-every-industrial-and-energy-facility-needs
https://www.wsfp.com/life-safety-systems/