Observatory operations
Power Grid
Power is a true connected network. A generator in one disconnected component cannot power a load in another, and long links create transmission loss that increases the effective load of that component.
How the grid works
Solar arrays and backup generators provide available output when operational.
Use the power-grid interface to link buildings. Connections may pass through intermediate buildings.
Every connected group is evaluated as its own grid component.
Longer wires reduce average component efficiency; technology and upgrades improve it.
If generation cannot cover load plus transmission losses, consumers in that component become unpowered.
actual load ÷ average wire efficiencyLong lines therefore make the same buildings require more generation.
Wire efficiency
Wire efficiency is distance-based with technology and building upgrade bonuses. The system floors individual links so even very long links still retain partial efficiency, but compact grids waste much less power.
Data Reduction Cabins are dynamic loads
A Data Reduction Cabin does not always consume its full rated load. Its draw rises with processing throughput and cooling demand. Multiple cabins in one component share whatever generation remains after ordinary building loads.
Backup strategy
A Backup Generator can provide resilient local capacity, but it must be in the right component. Building one without wiring it into critical facilities gives you installed generation that cannot serve the outage you care about.