Abstract: The present invention disclosed and claimed herein comprises a backup power system to supply current to an electromechanical actuator (50) to position a mechanical device (52) to a fail-safe position upon failure of a primary electric power source (12). A capacitor (40) is provided for storing energy. The capacitor (40) is charged by the primary electric power source (12). A relay device (35) is also provided for disconnecting the primary control signal upon failure of the primary electric power source (12) and connecting the capacitor (40) to the electromechanical actuator (50) to supply electric current to the electromechanical actuator (50) to position the mechanical device (52) to a fail-safe position. The relay device (35) comprises a transistor (32) which is kept turned off by the primary electric power source (12) and upon failure of the primary electric power source (12), turns on and energizes an electric relay coil (34).