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Energy System
February 23, 2026 at 04:55 AM
Expanded with verified research details
The energy system is one of the central mechanics in Solarpunk. Nearly every machine, automated device, and advanced structure requires power to function. Energy is generated from renewable sources, stored in batteries, and distributed through cables or wireless connections to where it is needed.
Solarpunk provides multiple ways to generate power, all based on renewable energy sources consistent with the game's optimistic setting:
Solar panels: The primary energy source. Solar panels generate power during daylight hours. Output varies depending on weather conditions; storms and cloud cover reduce generation.
Wind turbines: Generate power based on wind strength. Wind turbines work at any time of day, making them a complement to solar panels during nighttime or storms.
Because solar panels only produce energy during the day and turbine output fluctuates with wind, batteries are used to store surplus power for later use. Batteries have charge status indicators that display the current stored energy level. The improved battery models also include wireless connectors, supporting the game's push toward cleaner base layouts without cable clutter.
The traditional method for moving power is through cables that connect generators, batteries, and machines. Cable placement draws from the Astroneer-style approach where players physically run connections between devices. While functional, heavy cable use can result in visual clutter across a base.
To address cable clutter, the developers are working on a wireless power distribution system. This allows batteries and certain machines to transmit and receive power without physical cable connections. Wireless connectors on the improved battery models are part of this system, letting players build cleaner and more organized bases.
Switches allow players to turn entire power networks, or individual sections of a network, on and off. This provides control over energy consumption. For example, players can shut down automation machines during the night when they are not needed, conserving stored battery power for other systems. Switches connect inline with cables and can be toggled at any time.
Combine solar panels and wind turbines so that at least one source is always generating power regardless of time or weather
Place batteries centrally to minimize cable runs to outlying machines
Use switches to disable non-essential systems during storms when generation drops
As wireless power becomes available, transition high-traffic areas to wireless to reduce cable clutter
Monitor battery charge indicators to identify when your base is consuming more power than it generates
