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Usually when power gets low, it is too late to do something about it. So I created a system that warns me in advance about upcoming power shortages (the factory always grows, so the power consumption does also)
Blueprint: https://factorioprints.com/view/-OCT5nAnTZ8YcrUlTysQ

The idea is to measure, if enough power is generated and if enough accumulator storage is available to last over the night.

In order to measure, if enough power is generated, it is measured how long it takes to fill all accumulators during the day. If it takes too long, more power should be generated, so that the accumulators reach a 100% charge level also in the future.

In order to evaluate if enough accumulator storage is available, the minimal charge level during the night is measured. If it is too low, more accumulators should be build, before they run completely dry.

These two concepts are shown in the following picture:
The blueprint book contains three blueprints:

- A compact variant, that warns once a day about imminent power problems
- An extended variant, that additionally displays the values of the two power states
- A documentary variant, that explains all parts and displays additional values using Nixie tubes (not necessary if you simply want to use it)
When placing templates, one can configure the warning-level indicators (the default values work good for me on Nauvis). Additionally it is possible to configure the length of the day, which is necessary for other planets.

All combinators contain extensive documentation.

I have this



This setup works only for Navius. For other planets, you will need to adjust the constants and the number of lamps to achieve the correct output. It simulates the accumulator value when your energy consumption matches exactly 70% of the solar power. Simply read the "A" signal from the pole and compare it with the accumulator in your main system.

An important note: this instance must be disconnected from other power sources. Additionally, if you build it, ensure that the accumulator is fully charged (100%) at least once. To do this, connect it to your main power sorce and once accumulator is charged, disconnect.

It warns me whenever there is an energy shortage. It's useful for turning on nuclear power or other backup systems "in time." It only simulates the optimal accumulator curve. Thats what it does. You can take this and process this signal in any advanced system further. Like your warning system. Or you can use it to determine when the day actually starts. Note: Do not use the time for minimal or maximal accumulator recharge to identify this, as it's better to read a value in the middle. Near the dead points, the curve is nearly flat, which can lead to precision issues.

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