Abstract: A shelter for protecting a portable electrical inlet/outlet (PEIO) includes a base and a cover. In some examples, the base includes a platform to support a body of the PEIO, and the platform is configured to segregate the PEIO body from water that may accumulate. In some examples, the cover configured to mate with the base to substantially enclose the platform. Upon being inserted into the shelter, the PEIO may be protected from unwanted elements, such as rain, snow, unintended contact by humans or animals, or the like.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide a docking station that prevents electrical cables (e.g., from a portable power generator or other temporary power source) from even being connected to connectors in the interior of the docking station while the building's electrical system (or other electrical load) is in electrical communication with the utility. The docking station can include a cabinet with two doors that swing in different directions and a locking mechanism that regulates the opening and closing of those doors. In preferred embodiments, the locking mechanism includes a trapped-key lock. Embodiments of the present invention can be used in applications other than docking stations.