Satisfactory Guide: Ranking All Power Supplies

In Satisfactory, while crafting by hand is an option, nothing beats the efficiency of automated industrial machinery. However, managing a large-scale operation requires a significant amount of power. Balancing the electrical needs of your machinery is an ongoing challenge, as each machine imposes its own demands on your power grid. Overloading the system can trip fuses and create chaos.

With five power generators available in the game, each offers distinct advantages and drawbacks. Whether you're aiming to optimize your power grid or starting to automate your crafting, here’s a comprehensive ranking of the power supplies in Satisfactory.

Updated September 18, 2024 by Matthew McKeown: With the official release of Satisfactory, the once-limited toolbox has expanded with numerous gadgets and features. From grand trains to portable miners, the game now offers a wealth of options to keep you engaged. While the core power mechanics remain familiar, there have been backend adjustments in resource consumption and power distribution. As the game evolves, expect even more ways to fuel your factory. Here’s an updated guide to the top power supplies in Satisfactory.

1. Nuclear Power Plant

Available at Tier 8, the Nuclear Power Plant stands as the ultimate power source. Delivering an impressive 2500 MW, it’s a powerhouse but also one of the most complex to manage. Much like real-world nuclear facilities, it generates highly radioactive waste, creating potential hazards for your base.

- Tier: 8

- Wattage: 2500 MW

- Fuel: Plutonium or Uranium fuel rod

- Overclockable: Yes

- Pros: High power output, overclockable

- Cons: Produces nuclear waste, requires high maintenance, can render an area uninhabitable

The Nuclear Power Plant constantly produces radioactive sludge, affecting a 400-meter radius and potentially making your base uninhabitable. To mitigate this, position the generator far from developed areas, or if you’re feeling inventive, use a Hyper Tube Cannon to launch the waste off the map—though this can cause game instability.

2. Geothermal Generator

For a more eco-friendly option, the Geothermal Generator provides a sustainable power solution. This generator harnesses energy from geysers, offering a cleaner approach to powering your machines.

- Tier: NA; requires Caterium Research

- Wattage: 100 - 600 MW

- Fuel: Geyser

- Overclockable: No

- Pros: Environmentally friendly

- Cons: Limited by geyser location and purity, variable energy output, needs redundant power storage

Unlocked through the Caterium Research Tree in the MAM, the Geothermal Generator sits atop geysers, producing up to 600 MW. While it’s a greener option and easy to set up, its power output can be inconsistent, especially if the geyser’s purity is low. To counteract this, install multiple generators with backup power storage.

3. Fuel Generator

Fuel Generators become a key asset as you advance through the game. They require a steady supply of fuel processed from crude oil, but once set up, they run smoothly with minimal fuss.

- Tier: 6

- Wattage: 150 MW

- Fuel: Liquid Biofuel, Fuel, Turbofuel

- Overclockable: Yes

- Pros: Overclockable, various fuel options, straightforward setup

- Cons: Requires a constant fuel supply

At Tier 6, Fuel Generators produce 150 MW of power. They operate using Liquid Fuel processed at a Refinery, and while their setup involves piping and a continuous source of crude oil, they are reliable and easy to maintain. They are ideal for powering complex machinery as your factory grows.

4. Coal Generator

Coal Generators are a staple for many players in Satisfactory, providing a substantial power boost early in the game. They generate 75 MW of power but require a consistent supply of coal and water.

- Tier: 3

- Wattage: 75 MW

- Fuel: Coal, Petroleum Coke, Compacted Coal

- Overclockable: Yes

- Pros: Excellent early-game power source, overclockable

- Cons: Requires constant coal and water supply, can be difficult to set up initially

Coal Generators are essential for expanding your base, but securing a reliable source of coal can be challenging. Once established, they become a dependable source of power, albeit with a higher setup difficulty due to their need for a constant supply of resources.

5. Biomass Burner

The Biomass Burner is the first power generator you’ll encounter and remains a versatile choice for early-game power. It’s inexpensive to craft and supports a variety of fuel types.

- Tier: 0

- Wattage: 30 MW

- Fuel: Flower Petals, Leaves, Mycelia, Wood, Alien Carapace, Fabric, Alien Organs, Biomass, Packaged Liquid Biofuel, Solid Biofuel

- Overclockable: Yes

- Pros: Accepts many fuel sources, low crafting cost

- Cons: Low power output, requires manual fuel insertion

The Biomass Burner is easy to build and perfect for kick-starting your power grid. It runs on biomass made from leaves or wood and is an excellent tool for powering up initial machinery. Its primary drawback is the need for manual fuel management, though converting biomass into Solid Biofuel can extend its run time.

These power generators each play a crucial role in powering your Satisfactory factory. Whether you’re aiming for a high-output setup or a more sustainable approach, each option has its unique strengths and challenges.