On Thu, 12 Dec 2013 13:12:50 -0800 (PST), Pavel314
wrote:

It would be nice if there were some sort of induction device I could
clamp on the main line coming in from the street


Get yourself a robotic leg. Connect it to the mains from the meter.
When the power comes back on, the leg kicks your generator over, or
kicks you in the ass......