How to convert kilowatt-hours to kilocalories
To convert a measurement in kilowatt-hours to kilocalories, multiply the value by 860.42065. The conversion factor comes from the relationship between both units and the joule.
For example, to convert 5 kWh to kilocalories: 5 × 860.42065 = 4,302.1033 kcal.
What is a kilowatt-hour?
A kilowatt-hour equals 1,000 watt-hours, or 3.6 million joules, and is the standard unit for billing electrical energy. The kilowatt-hour became the universal unit of electricity metering because it conveniently expresses household consumption. Running a 1,000-watt appliance for one hour uses exactly one kWh.
Common uses of kilowatt-hours include: Household electricity billing; Electric vehicle battery capacity; Home solar and battery systems; Energy audits and efficiency ratings.
What is a kilocalorie?
A kilocalorie equals 1,000 small calories, or exactly 4,184 joules, and is the 'Calorie' shown on food nutrition labels. The food Calorie (capital C) is actually a kilocalorie. This convention, established in nutrition science, means a 500-Calorie meal contains 500 kilocalories, or about 2,092 kilojoules.
Common uses of kilocalories include: Food energy (the dietary 'Calorie'); Metabolism and exercise burn estimates; Nutrition and diet planning; Bomb-calorimetry food testing.
Kilowatt-hours to kilocalories worked examples
Here are some common values converted:
1 kWh = 860.42065 kcal 5 kWh = 4,302.1033 kcal 10 kWh = 8,604.2065 kcal 50 kWh = 43,021.0325 kcal 100 kWh = 86,042.065 kcal
Frequently asked questions
How many kilocalories are in one kilowatt-hour?
One kilowatt-hour (kWh) equals 860.42065 kilocalories (kcal). Multiply any value in kilowatt-hours by 860.42065 to convert to kilocalories.
How do I convert kilowatt-hours to kilocalories?
Multiply the value in kilowatt-hours by 860.42065. For example, 5 kWh × 860.42065 = 4,302.1033 kcal.
How do I convert kilocalories to kilowatt-hours?
Multiply the value in kilocalories by 0.001162222222, or divide by 860.42065. Use the swap button on the converter above to reverse the direction.
Is the kilowatt-hour to kilocalorie conversion exact?
The thermochemical calorie is defined as exactly 4.184 J and the BTU as 1055.056 J. Conversions between SI energy units are exact.
What is the formula for kilowatt-hours to kilocalories?
The formula is: kcal = kWh × 860.42065. This comes from the definition of both units relative to the joule.