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kW vs kWh: Difference Explained (Power vs Energy)

kW is power; kWh is energy. They are not interchangeable without time. 1 kWh = 1 kW used for 1 hour — with examples and caveats.

Question

What is the difference between kW and kWh?

kW measures power; kWh measures energy. 1 kWh is the energy used by 1 kW running for 1 hour.

kW

Power

kWh

Energy

Relationship

kWh = kW x hours

Explanation

Kilowatt (kW) is a rate: how fast energy is being used or produced.

Kilowatt-hour (kWh) is an amount of energy: power multiplied by time.

Use kW for equipment capacity and kWh for electricity consumption or billing.

Important caveat

Do not convert kW to kWh without a time value. A 2 kW heater running for 3 hours uses 6 kWh.

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