Electricity

Build a working network

Research Electricity, then place a Wood-fired generator, Power conduits and the equipment you want to run.

A generator needs a conduit touching it. Electric consumers connect to the nearest conduit within six cells. Conduits can run under floors and walls. A nearby generator and appliance are not enough if the network connection is missing.

Enable Haul and keep wood available to refuel the generator. Turn on the Power networks view with L to inspect connections and supply. The view also appears while placing conduits.

Press L to trace the network. In this example the generator connects through conduits to the battery and cooler; the network label reports production, consumption and stored energy. View full screenshot

Supply, demand and batteries

Check the network’s production against consumption. A Battery stores surplus and supplies a shortfall until empty; it does not produce new energy. Large consumers such as sun lamps can exhaust a small network quickly.

After Renewable energy, solar panels produce according to daylight and weather, while wind turbines vary with the wind. Keep both unroofed. Turbines need their clear zone free of obstructions, including roofs; their automatic tree-cutting option helps keep it clear.

Roof batteries over. Charged batteries exposed to rain or snow can short-circuit, lose their charge and start fires.

Select a battery to check its stored energy and network. A partly charged battery is a reserve; it still needs generation to recharge. View full screenshot

Switch devices

Select a powered building and toggle Power on. A colonist must walk over to operate the switch. Switching off removes consumption; a switched-off wood generator also stops consuming fuel. Heaters and coolers use reduced power when already at their target temperature.

A building has no power

• Inspect it to confirm it is connected and switched on.
• Follow the network with L and check for missing conduits.
• Check the generator’s fuel and the network’s available output.
• Check whether batteries are empty, solar panels are in darkness or turbines are obstructed.
• Reduce demand or add generation.

See the building catalog for each building’s rated power use or maximum output.