Convert MW to kW
Convert MW to kW instantly. 1 MW = 1,000 kW. Formula, worked examples and a quick reference table.
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One megawatt equals 1,000 kilowatts. To convert any number of megawatts to kilowatts, multiply by 1,000.
The converter above works in both directions and updates as you type. Below you will find the formula, a worked example and a reference table of common values.
Power is energy per unit time, and the conversions here are all between ways of expressing that rate. Watts and kilowatts are the SI forms; horsepower survives in engine ratings because James Watt coined it to sell steam engines against the animals they replaced. Confusing power with energy is the persistent error in this category: a wattage tells you nothing about consumption or cost until a duration is attached to it.
MW to kW formula
To go the other way, use megawatt = kilowatt ÷ 1,000.
About these units
A megawatt is a million watts. Power stations and grid capacity are quoted in megawatts; a single large wind turbine is typically rated between two and six.
A kilowatt is 1,000 watts, roughly 1.34 mechanical horsepower. It is the standard rating for electric motors, EV chargers and domestic supply capacity.
Megawatt is also written megawatts. Kilowatt is also written kilowatts.
Sources
MW to kW conversion table
| Megawatt | Kilowatt |
|---|---|
| 1 MW | 1,000 kW |
| 2 MW | 2,000 kW |
| 3 MW | 3,000 kW |
| 5 MW | 5,000 kW |
| 10 MW | 10,000 kW |
| 20 MW | 20,000 kW |
| 25 MW | 25,000 kW |
| 50 MW | 50,000 kW |
| 100 MW | 100,000 kW |
| 250 MW | 250,000 kW |
| 500 MW | 500,000 kW |
| 1,000 MW | 1,000,000 kW |
Frequently asked questions
How many kilowatts are in a megawatt? +
There are 1,000 kilowatts in one megawatt.
What is 10 MW in kW? +
10 MW equals 10,000 kW. Multiply 10 by 1,000.
How do I convert kilowatt back to megawatt? +
Use megawatt = kilowatt ÷ 1,000. The converter above handles both directions, or see our dedicated kW to MW page.
How accurate is this megawatt to kilowatt conversion? +
The factor used is 1,000, carried at full double precision. Where a unit has an exact legal definition the factor is exact rather than approximate. Rounding is applied only to the displayed result, so the answer is never a calculation done on an already-rounded number.
Is there a quick way to estimate MW to kW in my head? +
Multiply by 1,000. That matches the true factor of 1,000 exactly, so no adjustment is needed for a mental estimate.