I like your tie-down method - bungie cords from Harbor Frieght?
Still think you do need a windscreen, though Lindsey. Even if you keep the pots on the bench, having the leaves whipping around in the wind isn't good for them. If the roots are rubbed as the plants move, it can kill off the little tips of the growing roots which sets back the plants a lot. (this from Martin Motes' book, not just from me btw)
A 4ft. x 8ft. sheet of lattice can be had from Home Depot or Lowe's. No idea of the price but not terribly expensive as I recall. Just put it up temporarily if needs be, and then get fence posts installed once you've got your electricals fixed up.
OR another idea, that would be very cheap - a panel of wood fencing 8ft. by 6ft costs around $38. Tack it to the back of one of your benches as a wind block?
My DH (who is an engineer, as it happens) says "How about a sail?" if you have a way to fasten it down on a slant to make it just deflect the wind (but of course it would have to not flap). In-ground anchors that you screw into the soil are available at hardware stores for $10 or so . . .
