A system for positioning equipment comprises a hoist including an electric motor coupled to a pulley for exerting a pulling force upon a tension member that extends to a distal end configured to attach to an elevated structure. The system also comprises a portable power supply including a battery supplying DC power, and an inverter configured to generate and supply AC power to the hoist for driving the electric motor and thereby lifting the hoist toward the elevated structure. A method for pre-positioning a hoist comprises attaching a tension member of a hoist to an elevated structure; generating AC power from a DC source by an inverter of a portable power supply; and lifting the hoist using the portable power supply. Thus, the hoist can be pre-positioned in an elevated location before utility power is available.