Supporting communities during major outages
Our Mobile Emergency Response Vehicles provide a practical, on-the-ground response to help communities stay connected, informed and supported while our crews work to restore power.
When severe storms, floods or other emergencies cause widespread or extended power outages, CitiPower and Powercor can deploy our Mobile Emergency Response Vehicles (MERV & VERA) to communities that need additional support.
Introduced following the significant storms of 2021 and 2022, MERV and VERA provide a practical, on-the-ground response to help communities stay connected, informed and supported while our crews work to restore power.
What can MERV and VERA provide?
Our vehicles can be deployed to community hubs, relief centres and local town centres, providing:
- Phone and device charging: 20 secure charging lockers for phones and essential devices, including wheelchairs, hearing aids and personal care equipment.
- Internet connectivity: Mobile satellite Wi-Fi to help people access essential online services, information and communications.
- Power: An onboard generator, solar panels and battery storage to provide power to the vehicles and, where required, community facilities.
- Information and communication: Large-screen displays for outage and safety information, along with a portable PA system for community briefings.
- Refreshments and facilities: Hot water, coffee, drinking water and a fridge for community members.
- First aid and safety equipment: Including a defibrillator, first aid kit and fire extinguisher.
- Lighting and shelter: A light mast and all-weather awning to support safe operation at community hubs.
- Emergency communications: Satellite, radio and other communications systems to maintain contact with Powercor’s response teams.
MERV and VERA can also operate as mobile offices for our field teams, supporting our response and coordination during major emergencies.
Supporting recovery
Our specialist Powercor employees are available at these locations to provide practical assistance, answer questions and help communities access important information while power is being restored. Our priority during emergencies is the safety and wellbeing of our communities, followed by restoring power as quickly and safely as possible.
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