Convert Megawatts to Kilowatts - Power Converter
This converter performs direct unit conversion between megawatts (MW) and kilowatts (kW). The relationship is a fixed SI prefix conversion: 1 megawatt equals 1,000 kilowatts, so the numerical conversion is exact and deterministic.
The tool is intended for engineers, technicians, energy analysts, and anyone needing a quick and reliable unit conversion. For measured power values, apply this conversion to the instrument reading; consult calibration and uncertainty documentation when using converted readings for regulatory compliance or contractual reporting.
Governance
Record a8db16f6aeaa • Reviewed by Fidamen Standards Committee
Interactive Converter
Convert between megawatt and kilowatt with precision rounding.
Quick reference table
| Megawatt | Kilowatt |
|---|---|
| 1 MW | 1,000 kW |
| 5 MW | 5,000 kW |
| 10 MW | 10,000 kW |
| 25 MW | 25,000 kW |
| 50 MW | 50,000 kW |
| 100 MW | 100,000 kW |
Methodology
The conversion uses the International System of Units (SI) prefix kilo- (k) = 10^3. Megawatt (MW) is the SI-derived unit with prefix mega- (M) = 10^6 applied to the watt (W). Converting between these units is therefore a scalar multiplication or division by 1,000.
While the mathematical conversion is exact, practical accuracy depends on source measurements and instrumentation. Follow NIST guidance for unit definitions and traceability, use IEEE and ISO standards for instrument calibration and power measurement methods, and observe OSHA requirements for safe measurement around high-voltage or high-power equipment.
When converting values for reporting, clarify whether the value represents instantaneous power, average power over an interval, or energy (e.g., MWh). Rounding should respect the significant digits of the original measurement and any contractual or regulatory precision requirements.
Key takeaways
This converter applies the exact SI-prefix relationship (1 MW = 1,000 kW) to convert power values between megawatts and kilowatts.
Use this tool for straightforward unit conversion; for measurement, reporting, or safety-critical applications consult NIST, ISO, IEEE, and OSHA guidance and ensure instrument calibration and uncertainty are handled per applicable standards.
Worked examples
1 MW = 1,000 kW
0.5 MW = 500 kW
2.75 MW = 2,750 kW
1500 MW = 1,500,000 kW
F.A.Q.
Is the conversion from MW to kW exact?
Yes. The unit conversion factor is exact because it is defined by SI prefixes: 1 MW equals exactly 1,000 kW. Any deviation in reported values comes from measurement uncertainty, not the conversion itself.
What is the difference between MW and MWh?
MW (megawatt) is a unit of power (rate of energy transfer). MWh (megawatt-hour) is a unit of energy (power multiplied by time). Converting MW to kW converts power units; converting to MWh requires integrating power over time.
How many significant figures should I keep when converting?
Keep at least the same number of significant figures as the original measurement. For regulatory or contract reporting, follow the precision rules in the applicable standard or agreement. Rounding before any subsequent calculations can introduce avoidable error.
Does this converter account for instrument calibration or measurement uncertainty?
No. This tool performs a mathematical unit conversion only. For calibrated measurements and uncertainty estimation, consult measurement standards and calibration certificates referenced by NIST, ISO, and IEEE, and apply uncertainty propagation as appropriate.
Can I use this conversion for grid interconnection or safety calculations?
You may use the numeric conversion, but for interconnection studies, protection settings, or safety planning, follow the applicable IEEE/IEC standards and OSHA regulations. Those contexts often require specific measurement procedures, rounding conventions, and documented calibration traceability.
Sources & citations
- NIST Guide to the SI and unit definitions — https://physics.nist.gov/cuu/Units/units.html
- ISO 80000 series (Quantities and units) overview — https://www.iso.org/standard/30669.html
- IEEE Standards and publications — https://standards.ieee.org/
- OSHA — electrical safety and workplace regulations — https://www.osha.gov/
- NIST SP 811 — Guide for the Use of the International System of Units — https://www.nist.gov/pml/special-publication-811
Further resources
Related tools
External guidance
Versioning & Change Control
Audit record (versions, QA runs, reviewer sign-off, and evidence).
Record ID: a8db16f6aeaaWhat changed (latest)
v1.0.0 • 2025-11-16 • MINOR
Initial publication and governance baseline.
Why: Published with reviewed formulas, unit definitions, and UX controls.
Public QA status
PASS — golden 25 + edge 120
Last run: 2026-01-23 • Run: golden-edge-2026-01-23
Versioning & Change Control
Audit record (versions, QA runs, reviewer sign-off, and evidence).
What changed (latest)
v1.0.0 • 2025-11-16 • MINOR
Initial publication and governance baseline.
Why: Published with reviewed formulas, unit definitions, and UX controls.
Public QA status
PASS — golden 25 + edge 120
Last run: 2026-01-23 • Run: golden-edge-2026-01-23
Engine
v1.0.0
Data
Baseline (no external datasets)
Content
v1.0.0
UI
v1.0.0
Governance
Last updated: Nov 16, 2025
Reviewed by: Fidamen Standards Committee (Review board)
Credentials: Internal QA
Risk level: low
Reviewer profile (entity)
Fidamen Standards Committee
Review board
Internal QA
Entity ID: https://fidamen.com/reviewers/fidamen-standards-committee#person
Semantic versioning
- MAJOR: Calculation outputs can change for the same inputs (formula, rounding policy, assumptions).
- MINOR: New features or fields that do not change existing outputs for the same inputs.
- PATCH: Bug fixes, copy edits, or accessibility changes that do not change intended outputs except for previously incorrect cases.
Review protocol
- Verify formulas and unit definitions against primary standards or datasets.
- Run golden-case regression suite and edge-case suite.
- Record reviewer sign-off with credentials and scope.
- Document assumptions, limitations, and jurisdiction applicability.
Assumptions & limitations
- Uses exact unit definitions from the Fidamen conversion library.
- Internal calculations use double precision; display rounding follows the unit's configured decimal places.
- Not a substitute for calibrated instruments in regulated contexts.
- Jurisdiction-specific rules may require official guidance.
Change log
v1.0.0 • 2025-11-16 • MINOR
Initial publication and governance baseline.
Why: Published with reviewed formulas, unit definitions, and UX controls.
Areas: engine, content, ui • Reviewer: Fidamen Standards Committee • Entry ID: e31af2167318