1. What is kVA to kWh Conversion?

Definition: This calculator converts apparent power (kVA) to actual energy consumption (kWh) using power factor and time.

Purpose: It helps electrical engineers, facility managers, and energy auditors determine real energy usage from apparent power measurements.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( E_{kWh} \) — Energy in kilowatt-hours
• \( kVA \) — Apparent power in kilovolt-amperes
• \( PF \) — Power factor (0 to 1)
• \( t \) — Time duration in hours

Explanation: The formula accounts for the phase difference between voltage and current (power factor) to calculate real energy consumption over time.

3. Importance of kVA to kWh Conversion

Details: Accurate conversion helps in energy billing, generator sizing, and electrical system efficiency analysis.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the kVA rating, power factor (default 0.8), and operating time in hours. Power factor must be between 0 and 1.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the difference between kVA and kWh?
A: kVA measures apparent power (voltage × current), while kWh measures actual energy consumed (power × time).

Q2: What's a typical power factor value?
A: Most electrical systems operate at 0.8-0.95 power factor. Motors might have 0.7-0.9, while purely resistive loads have 1.0.

Q3: Why does power factor affect energy calculation?
A: Power factor represents the ratio of real power to apparent power - only real power does actual work and consumes energy.

Q4: Can I use this for three-phase systems?
A: Yes, if the kVA value already accounts for three-phase (line-to-line voltage × current × √3).

Q5: How accurate is this calculation?
A: It's accurate for constant loads. For varying loads, use time-segmented calculations or energy meters.