Introducing Cyril: The SA Power Networks mobile community hub
SA Power Networks has today launched 'Cyril', South Australia's first Mobile Community Hub for electricity consumers.
Designed to be deployed to the scene of major outages, Cyril will provide a much-needed back-up personal power supply, valuable information, support, and even just a welcoming place to gather.
Named by staff and public vote, after James ‘Cyril’ Stobie, Cyril is similar to interstate cousins Merv, Vera and Emma, and was a key recommendation to SA Power Networks arising from consultation with vulnerable community groups.
Situations in which Cyril might be deployed include storms where extensive network damage has created a prolonged outage, a flooding event in which power is switched off for an extended period, or a bushfire or other evacuation event.
A particular focus will be on areas without other easily accessible public facilities – such as shopping centres – nearby.
With roof-top solar panels and a large battery and water tank, Cyril is equipped with:
- More than 20 device charging lockers, equipped with charging points for all types of phones and tablets – even older ones.
- An external charging point for essential equipment such as motorised wheelchairs
- Starlink providing free wifi access
- Fresh water, tea and coffee
- A microwave for heating food or warming babies’ bottles
- A defibrillator, first aid kit and a first aid trained staff member
- A screen with all of the latest outage restoration information
- Easy ways to access other SA Power Networks systems and information, with staff who have both technical and customer assistance experience on hand, but are also happy just to have a chat.
These amenities were all made available after SA Power Networks surveyed customers about what they would want most during an extended outage. Depending on conditions, Cyril may also be carrying blankets, ice packs, batteries or fans, and high-powered lighting.
In between emergency deployments, Cyril will still be out and about in the community helping to educate South Australians about the electricity network, including hosting “bring your bill” events so customers can better understand their energy usage.
If successful, it’s hoped Cyril might eventually not be doing it all alone but will be just the first of a mobile hub fleet serving the community across SA.
Video - Meet Cyril