Colony Operations
Power Automation
A functioning power connection keeps powered production buildings available for crop processing and material production.
WHERE & HOW TO FARM
Power Automation
Between an appropriate faction power source and the shaft or network input of a powered building such as a Sawmill or Press.
Before you go
- A power source that fits the selected faction and map conditions.
- The required shafts, gears, or faction-specific connection pieces.
- A powered production building with workers and input goods.
- Enough connected power to meet the current production load.
Farming steps
- Choose a production building and inspect its status and operating requirements in-game.
- Select a compatible power source, such as a waterwheel or engine where appropriate.
- Place the source where its own operating conditions can be met.
- Connect the source to the building using the required shafts, gears, or power network.
- Provide workers and input goods, then check the building status to confirm it can operate.
- If production stops, inspect the connection, source condition, and competing load before expanding.
- Add batteries or other buffering after the source and connection reliably support the current machines.
- A source can be present without delivering power if the connection is incomplete or the source cannot operate.
- Check the machine’s status before planting more ingredient crops for a powered processor.
Repeat, collect and use
Keep the power source, connection, and machine maintained as the production loop runs; add capacity or buffering only when the current connected supply is insufficient.
Common mistakes
- Building a powered processor without confirming its connection: trace the shaft or network to the source.
- Adding crop or material supply while the machine lacks power: resolve the displayed operating issue first.
- Adding buffers before the source works: verify production and load before investing in storage.
When to stop or switch
Stop expanding power when current machines remain supplied and operate as intended; add or revise capacity when a new building causes an actual shortage.
Sources & fact checks
What you can get here
Open a guide to find other locations and see what the item is used for.