When power lines failed in Alexandria on a Friday evening, Sydney pub owner Phil Anderson used an electric vehicle to keep The Mitch Hotel operational for six hours, according to NewsWire. Rather than closing the venue during its busiest shift, Anderson plugged an extension cord from his electric BYD directly into the pub, powering essential appliances one by one between 3pm and 9pm.
How an EV Kept a Sydney Pub Open During a Blackout
The unexpected outage struck during scheduled power line repairs, cutting lights and refrigeration across the building. According to NewsWire, Anderson arrived from his other venue, Sneaky Possum, to find the pub entirely dark before devising the temporary power solution. “I jumped across to the Mitch Hotel. There was no sound in the pub, the lights were off and it was like, ‘What in the world is going on’. So I just plugged in an extension cord (to my car),” Anderson told NewsWire.
By connecting the BYD vehicle, staff managed to keep the beer taps pouring, pizzas firing, and music playing through an alternative PA system. Anderson shared footage of the setup online with the caption noting the venue remained open. Patrons supported the improvised operation, with some offering to source generators and ice while others praised the resilience of the venue.
The Practical Benefits of Vehicle-to-Load Technology
Social media users responding to Anderson’s post suggested that BYD Australia should consider sponsoring the pub to highlight the practical utility of electric vehicles beyond daily commuting.
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Hospitality Resilience During Grid Failures
Operating a hospitality venue through a blackout requires immediate adaptation to maintain safety and customer service. “Sometimes keeping it going becomes the show, but the worst thing you can do is panic and let a place close, as people are there to relax after a long stressful week,” Anderson told NewsWire. Patrons reportedly viewed the darkened atmosphere with bemusement and welcomed the effort to keep the venue accessible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can any electric car power a building?
How long did the electric vehicle power the pub?
According to NewsWire, the BYD vehicle supplied power to the venue’s essential appliances for six hours, running from 3pm to 9pm.
What venue was affected by the blackout?
The Mitch Hotel in Alexandria, Sydney, experienced the power outage due to local power line repairs.
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