How to Build on a Backlot

Production will be building a backlot, which will require 30% of filming days and the bulk of prep power needs for construction.

Questions to Ask During the Planning of This Phase

• What power is available at the backlot?
  • There is a potential for power near the backlot, but production would need to work with the utility company to add a power drop.
  • If there is enough lead time to do this, it can be an expensive upfront cost.
• If a power drop is not an option, look at clean tech to reduce fuel.
  • Rent a solar basecamp and use solar bathrooms and work lights.
  • Use hybrid batteries/generators to reduce diesel fuel consumption.
  • Use batteries to replace generators and discuss how they will be recharged (e.g., grid power or diesel generator).
  • Use the calculator to understand if any clean tech premiums will be offset by fuel and/or equipment savings.
  • Discuss parking plans to consolidate power needs and reduce the number of sources (e.g., generators) required.
    • Can catering run off basecamp power?
    • Will the equipment trucks be powered from the set generators?
  • Use the most fuel-efficient technology (Tier 4 generators) to maximize fuel efficiency.

How to Understand the Business Case

• Ask how many generators will be replaced by a power drop.
• Estimate the cost of fuel (using the Power Budgeting calculator) for each generator position. Include prep days and any overnight power needs.
• Add in the cost of any additional daily generator rentals that would be required for prep or shoot days.