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Backup power in Omaha

Electricians for generators and transfer switches.

19 pros in Omaha

In the Omaha area, backup power is tied closely to the local utility. OPPD must review and approve the transfer switch before a standby generator is installed, and automatic transfer switch systems need its approval. The July 2021 storm knocked out power to 188,000 homes and businesses, which the Omaha World-Herald calls OPPD's biggest outage in history, so many households are weighing a generator. When you hire, remember that OPPD's outage guide says only a qualified professional, such as a licensed contractor, should install a standby generator. It must have a transfer switch to isolate it from OPPD lines, because without one it can backfeed power and injure or kill line technicians. Nebraska also requires contractors doing business there to register with the Nebraska Department of Labor. Ask for the registration number, ask who will deal with OPPD about the transfer switch, and ask that the quote name the type of transfer switch.

Source: Omaha World-Herald (source, opens in a new tab)

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What to know in Omaha

  • OPPD customers on the SNAP programme who have an outage of more than four hours (refrigerated food) or twenty-four hours (frozen food) are eligible for replacement SNAP benefits. They must request it from DHHS, as it is not automatic.

    Omaha Public Power District (source, opens in a new tab)

Before you hire

  1. A generator wired into your home needs an approved transfer switch, fitted under a permit, so it can’t feed power back into the lines. Plan it before you buy.

    Source: bchydro.com (source, opens in a new tab)

  2. Get written quotes from at least three contractors for the same work, and check references from recent clients.

    Source: ised-isde.canada.ca (source, opens in a new tab)

  3. Put it in a written contract: the work, price, deposit, start and finish dates, warranty, permits and clean-up. Paying cash to skip it leaves you no recourse.

    Source: ised-isde.canada.ca (source, opens in a new tab)

Questions about hiring in Omaha

Who may install a standby generator in Omaha?

OPPD's outage guide says only a qualified professional, such as a licensed contractor, should install a standby generator. The unit needs a transfer switch that isolates it from OPPD lines. Ask the contractor to describe how the switch will be wired and who will handle the utility's review. Omaha Public Power District (source, opens in a new tab)

Does OPPD need to approve my transfer switch?

Yes. OPPD must review and approve the transfer switch before a standby generator is installed, and automatic transfer switch systems must be approved by OPPD. Ask your contractor whether they will submit the details for you and when you should expect approval before work starts. Omaha Public Power District (source, opens in a new tab)

What should a generator quote include?

A good quote names the generator and the transfer switch, says whether the switch is automatic, lists who handles permits and utility approval, and states the contractor's registration details. Ask for the scope of work in writing so you can compare quotes line by line.

Do I need to check that a contractor is registered in Nebraska?

Yes. All contractors doing business in Nebraska must register with the Nebraska Department of Labor. A contractor using more than one business name needs a separate registration number for each name, so ask which name appears on your quote and contract and check that number. Nebraska Department of Labor (source, opens in a new tab)

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