diff --git a/compiler/base/design.py b/compiler/base/design.py
index 70a9047b..f8ca0cb1 100644
--- a/compiler/base/design.py
+++ b/compiler/base/design.py
@@ -68,6 +68,14 @@ class design(hierarchy_design):
 
         self.setup_multiport_constants()
 
+        try:
+            from tech import power_grid
+            self.supply_stack = power_grid
+        except ImportError:
+            # if no power_grid is specified by tech we use sensible defaults
+            # Route a M3/M4 grid
+            self.supply_stack = self.m3_stack
+
     def check_pins(self):
         for pin_name in self.pins:
             pins = self.get_pins(pin_name)
diff --git a/compiler/sram/sram_base.py b/compiler/sram/sram_base.py
index 72c5e3fe..ec690610 100644
--- a/compiler/sram/sram_base.py
+++ b/compiler/sram/sram_base.py
@@ -41,13 +41,6 @@ class sram_base(design, verilog, lef):
         if not self.num_spare_cols:
             self.num_spare_cols = 0
 
-        try:
-            from tech import power_grid
-            self.supply_stack = power_grid
-        except ImportError:
-            # if no power_grid is specified by tech we use sensible defaults
-            # Route a M3/M4 grid
-            self.supply_stack = self.m3_stack
 
     def add_pins(self):
         """ Add pins for entire SRAM. """