How Exactly Does ERN Work?

[killymm]

I feel like I'm missing something because there are many maps that have more than 6 ERN, but as far as I can tell you can never use more than six and it cannot be destroyed in any way that I have witnessed.  Is there some reason or use for extra, unused ERN?

[Dexiro]

A lot of unit types can be supplied with an ERN, such as Cannons, TERPs, Mines, Shields, etc.

[Deadl0ck]

I feel like I'm missing something because there are many maps that have more than 6 ERN, but as far as I can tell you can never use more than six and it cannot be destroyed in any way that I have witnessed.  Is there some reason or use for extra, unused ERN?

I generally throw two in my first miners, to up my power production fast, then stack 4 in the platform, energy production, fire rate , mining rate, and weapon range, in that order. Then a sniper or two, and possibly a mortar or two. 

The tutorial (story missions) teaches you the primary use of ERN is to boost single units, the platform is only introduced in a later mission.

[isaac32767]

I feel like I'm missing something because there are many maps that have more than 6 ERN, but as far as I can tell you can never use more than six and it cannot be destroyed in any way that I have witnessed.  Is there some reason or use for extra, unused ERN?

A cannon with an ERN is very useful for pushing back creeper.

[Karsten75]

https://knucklecracker.com/wiki/doku.php?id=cw4:info:ern_crystal