Overcharge

Overcharge increases reactor power output. The current level of overcharge is displayed on a bar at top of screen (only visible when overcharged) and gradually dissipates.

Reaching 100% overcharge shuts the ship down. Environmental hazards, beacons, and the Overcharge processor can all add overcharge.

Uses and Strategy
Using the Overcharge Processor is the most common way to use and take advantage of overcharge, which adds some when energy damage is taken to shields or hull. It does not convert the damage or reduce it but the added power bonus can help with maneuverability or returning fire.

''[NOTE: Need a formula or conversion rate for damage to overcharge. The Processor can be upgraded to add more so we need to know what the rate is.]''

Using overcharge to overcome limitations of your reactor in this way makes using power-inefficient but powerful components like Racing Thrusters or Phase Turrets more viable.

This is a double-edged sword. In some circumstances you will be able to let the passive dissipation remove overcharge safely but in there are multiple attackers, you may gain it faster than you can use it. To avoid unexpected shutdowns you should have at least one (if not more) Discharge programs installed.