kWh to kW Calculator
Convert energy in kilowatt-hours (kWh) to power in kilowatts (kW) by dividing by time. Useful for estimating load, understanding appliance ratings, and energy planning.
How to Convert Kilowatt-hours to Kilowatts
Kilowatt-hours (kWh) measure energy, while kilowatts (kW) measure power. If you know the energy consumed and the time it was used over, you can determine the average power used.
Conversion Formula
kW = kWh ÷ Time (in hours)
Example Calculations
- 10 kWh used over 5 hours = 2 kW
- 24 kWh used over 12 hours = 2 kW
- 50 kWh used over 25 hours = 2 kW
Why Convert kWh to kW?
- Estimate appliance or system load
- Understand average power demand
- Size generators or UPS systems
- Analyze electricity usage trends
Real-World Applications
- Electric Bill Analysis: Determine if you have a consistent load or a spiked usage period.
- Backup Generator Sizing: If a building uses 100 kWh over 10 hours, it needs a 10 kW generator minimum.
- Battery Storage Systems: Match battery discharge rates with power demand.
Quick Conversion Table
| kWh | Time (hours) | Average kW |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | 5 | 2.0 |
| 20 | 10 | 2.0 |
| 15 | 3 | 5.0 |
| 100 | 50 | 2.0 |
| 5 | 0.5 | 10.0 |
kW vs. kWh: What’s the Difference?
Understanding the distinction is essential:
- kWh (kilowatt-hour): Energy – how much electricity was used over time.
- kW (kilowatt): Power – the rate at which electricity is being used at a given moment.
FAQs
Can I calculate kW without knowing time?
No. Time is essential for converting energy to power.
What’s the typical household average kW load?
Varies, but in the U.S. it’s about 1.2 to 2.5 kW average continuous load depending on the home size and appliances.
Can I use this for solar system planning?
Yes. It’s helpful for converting daily kWh usage into peak kW demand.
What happens if I enter zero hours?
You will get a math error. Time must be greater than zero to calculate average power.