Generating Power: Solar Panels, Wind Turbines, and Portable Generators
Start With a Basic Solar Panel
A Basic Solar Panel is the simplest power source. Place it where it has open sky above it, then run Energy Cable LV from the panel to your machines. The panel produces low-voltage power, so keep cable runs short and connect only LV machines to it.
For a larger solar setup, build a Solar Panel Frame and mount panels onto it. The frame gives you a tidy array instead of scattering panels across the ground.
Wind Power
Wind Turbine is the next step up. Build a Wind Turbine Pillar first, then attach Wind Generator Blades to the Wind Turbine. The taller the pillar, the better the turbine performs, so stack pillars before mounting the turbine head. Run Energy Cable MV from the turbine to your main line.
Portable and Backup Power
A Portable Generator gives you power anywhere. Place it, fuel it, and connect machines directly with Energy Cable LV. It is ideal for powering a Mining Drill or Deep Drill at a remote dig site.
Managing the Grid
Use an Energy Breaker to cut power to a section without dismantling cables. An Energy Level Indicator shows whether a line is live. For storage, place a Battery Bank or Industrial Battery Bank and charge it from your generators; a Lithium Battery and Battery are the smaller storage items you can carry. Use Energy Cable HV and Ultra-HV Transformer only when you are moving serious power between distant builds.