How to Play Power Grid: Supply Contract

Game Objective

Refer to the manual for details on this section.

Preparation (Setup)

Refer to the manual for details on this section.

Game Flow

The game progresses in turns. During phase 1 of each turn, the player order is determined according to the rules. After this determination, the player who possesses the Supply Contract is moved back one position in the player order.

When the Supply Contract is drawn, it is immediately auctioned among the players, regardless of the current game phase. After the auction, a new power plant is placed to fill the market.

Actions and How to Play

Supply Contract Auction

The Supply Contract is an item that, once acquired, offers permanent advantages in the player order. It does not count as a power plant and can be used in addition to the three (or four) power plants a player may have.

The auction for the Supply Contract is initiated by the leading player, who can pass or bid at least 10 Elektro. Players continue the auction clockwise until all but one pass. The winner of the auction pays the bid amount and immediately places the Supply Contract next to their power plants. Upon acquiring the Supply Contract, the player immediately moves their marker back one space in the player order (for example, if they were second, they now become third).

Advantages of the Supply Contract

The player who possesses the Supply Contract gains permanent advantages in the player order. In all subsequent turns, during phase 1, after the player order is determined according to the rules, the player who possesses the Supply Contract is moved back one position in the order.

End of Game and Scoring

Refer to the manual for details on this section.

Tips for Winning

• Consider the value of the Supply Contract in the auction. Although it costs Elektro, it offers a permanent advantage in the player order, which can be crucial for long-term strategy.
• The advantage of moving back in the player order can be strategic. Being later in the order can allow you to observe the actions of other players before making your own decisions, especially in phase 1.