How to Get Energy in StarRupture

Quick Answer

Energy in StarRupture comes from power generators. Build a basic generator (burns coal/wood) for early game, then upgrade to solar panels or geothermal plants for unlimited free power. You need energy to run machines, lights, and automated systems.

There are several ways to generate energy. Here's what works best at each stage:

Early Game: Fuel Generators

Basic Power Generator

• Output: 100 power
• Fuel: Coal, wood, or organic matter
• Crafting: 50 iron ingots, 20 copper wire, 10 gears
• Pros: Easy to build, works anywhere
• Cons: Requires constant fuel

Best for: Days 5-10, powering first machines

Mid Game: Solar Panels

Solar Panel

• Output: 50 power per panel (daytime only)
• Fuel: None (free unlimited power)
• Crafting: 30 steel plates, 20 silicon, 10 circuit boards
• Pros: No fuel cost, unlimited power
• Cons: Only works during day, needs open space

Best for: Days 10+, sustainable power

Late Game: Advanced Power

Geothermal Plant

• Output: 500 power (24/7)
• Fuel: None (free unlimited power)
• Crafting: 100 titanium plates, 50 advanced circuits
• Requirement: Must be built on volcanic vents
• Pros: Massive power, works day and night
• Cons: Expensive, location-specific

Best for: Week 3+, powering large factories

Nuclear Reactor

• Output: 1000 power
• Fuel: Uranium rods (lasts 24 hours)
• Crafting: 200 titanium, 100 quantum cores
• Pros: Highest power output
• Cons: Very expensive, requires rare fuel

Step 1: Build a Generator

Start with a basic power generator:

1. Unlock "Power Generation" in tech tree
2. Craft basic power generator at workbench
3. Place generator near your base
4. Add fuel (coal or wood)

Step 2: Connect Power Lines

Power doesn't transmit wirelessly. You need power lines:

• Craft power cables (5 copper wire each)
• Connect generator to machines with cables
• Power lines can extend up to 50 meters
• Use power poles for longer distances

Step 3: Add Batteries (Optional)

Batteries store excess power:

• Battery Bank: Stores 500 power
• Charges during the day (with solar)
• Powers base at night
• Essential for solar-only setups

Step 4: Monitor Power Usage

Check your power consumption:

• Open generator menu to see power output
• Each machine shows power requirement
• If consumption exceeds generation, machines shut down
• Build more generators or upgrade to higher output

Many machines and systems require power to function:

Essential Machines

How Much Power You Need

• Small Base: 100-200 power (1-2 generators)
• Medium Base: 300-500 power (6-10 solar panels)
• Large Factory: 1000+ power (geothermal or nuclear)

Learn how to automate your base in our automation guide.

Early Game (Days 5-10)

• 1-2 basic generators
• Burn coal for fuel (more efficient than wood)
• Power 2-3 machines
• Total cost: ~100 iron, 40 copper

Mid Game (Days 10-20)

• 6-10 solar panels
• 2-3 battery banks for night power
• 1 backup generator for emergencies
• Power 5-10 machines
• Total cost: ~300 steel, 200 silicon

Late Game (Week 3+)

• 1 geothermal plant (if available)
• Or 20+ solar panels with battery banks
• Or 1 nuclear reactor
• Power unlimited machines

• Start with generators: Easy to build and fuel with coal
• Upgrade to solar ASAP: Free power saves resources long-term
• Use batteries with solar: Store power for nighttime use
• Build near geothermal vents: Best late-game power source
• Turn off unused machines: Save power when not needed
• Prioritize auto-miners: They generate resources while using power
• Plan power capacity: Build 20% more than you currently need

• Automation Guide - Set up powered machines
• Crafting Guide - Craft generators and solar panels
• Resource Guide - Get materials for power systems
• How to Get Copper - Essential for power cables
• How to Get Iron - Needed for generators

Q: Do solar panels work at night?

No, solar panels only generate power during daylight hours. This is why batteries are essential - they store excess solar energy during the day to power your base at night. Alternatively, use fuel-based generators as backup power.

Q: How many generators do I need for my base?

Start with 2 basic generators for early game (enough for 4-6 machines). Add 1 generator for every 2-3 new machines you build. Late game bases typically need 8-10 solar panels or 3-4 geothermal plants. Check your power consumption in the base menu.

Q: What's the most efficient power source?

Geothermal plants are most efficient (free power, no fuel) but require volcanic biome access. Solar panels are second best (free daytime power). For early game, basic generators burning coal are most practical. Upgrade to solar by day 7-10.

Summary

Start with basic generators burning coal, upgrade to solar panels for free power, and eventually build geothermal plants for massive output. Connect machines with power cables and use batteries to store excess energy. Plan for 20% more power than you currently need.