Methods and systems for supplying auxiliary electrical power to a controller during power loss are described hereinabove. The system is powered by a primary power source, and includes a controller and a winding load that are both powered by the primary power source, and a switching device. When the primary power source is disconnected from the controller and winding load, the winding load continues to residually exercise to generate residual electrical power. The second switching device then channels the residual electrical power to the controller for a period of time at an acceptable level.