The latest update in Sons of the Forest has introduced electricity, allowing players to light up their bases with solar panels. While the current options are limited to light bulbs, this new feature hints at exciting future possibilities like refrigeration, battery charging, and even electric traps. However, many players are struggling to get their lights to work properly. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about setting up solar panels and managing power efficiently in Sons of the Forest.


Required Items for Solar Power

To get started, you’ll need three essential items:

  1. Solar Panel: Captures sunlight and generates power.
  2. Wire: Transmits power from the solar panel to your lights.
  3. Light Bulbs: Currently, the only electrical device available for power.

These items are fairly easy to find scattered across the map. However, if you want a reliable location to gather these materials quickly, keep reading!


Where to Find Solar Panels, Wires, and Light Bulbs

Best Location: The bunker near the first GPS marker, close to the forest spawn point.

  • Inside the Bunker:
    • A solar panel on a table.
    • Wires and light bulbs nearby.
    • 3D printer for crafting additional gear.

This bunker is easy to reach and provides everything you need to kickstart your solar power setup.


How to Set Up Solar Panels: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Building the Structure

  • Open the Booklet: Press B to access the building guide.
  • Switch to the Electricity Tab: Shows a basic diagram for setting up solar power with a panel, wire, and light bulb.

Step 2: Place the Solar Panel

  • Attach the panel to a flat roof or a ramp for optimal sun exposure.
  • Make sure it faces the direction that gets the most sunlight.

Step 3: Connecting the Wire

  • Important: Connect the wire directly to the orange side of the solar panel.
  • If you connect it anywhere else, it won’t work!
  • Run the wire along the beams of your base to where you want your lights.

Common Mistake: Many players connect the wire incorrectly. Ensure the orange line from the solar panel intersects directly with a wire leading to your lights.

Step 4: Installing Light Bulbs

  • Light bulbs can only be placed on horizontal beams.
  • Hold E to place and power them.

Tip: Currently, one solar panel can power an unlimited number of bulbs. You don’t need multiple panels unless future updates change this.


Power Management Tips

  • Unlimited Power: Right now, power works 24/7 regardless of day or night. This may change in future updates.
  • Efficiency: You can place up to 30 light bulbs with a single solar panel without losing power.
  • Hiding Wires: You can run wires inside walls or conceal them for a cleaner setup.

Expected Updates: Future patches may introduce power limits, battery storage, and other devices like refrigerators and electric traps.


Troubleshooting Common Issues

Issue: Lights Not Turning On

  • Solution: Check if the wire is connected to the orange side of the solar panel.
  • Solution: Make sure the light bulbs are on horizontal beams only.

Issue: Power Cuts Off Randomly

  • Solution: Reconnect the wire ensuring proper alignment with the orange side.
  • Solution: Check if wires are hidden inside walls, as this sometimes bugs out.

Future of Electricity in Sons of the Forest

The introduction of solar power hints at bigger plans for the electrical system in Sons of the Forest. Potential future additions might include:

  • Refrigerators: For storing perishable food.
  • Battery Chargers: To store solar power for nighttime use.
  • Electric Fences and Traps: To fend off cannibals.

Conclusion: Brighten Up Your Base!

Solar panels are an exciting addition to Sons of the Forest and offer a glimpse into a more complex power management system coming soon. For now, master the basics of wiring and lighting to ensure your base is safe and illuminated.

Got any power setup tips or want to see more electrical devices in the game? Drop a comment below and share your thoughts!


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