How Do You Measure Electricity?

You can measure electricity in watts, amps, volts, and ohms. Each of these units of measurement relate to a specific aspect of electricity. (See Electric Terms)

Electric use is measured in watt-hours, kilowatt-hours, and megawatt-hours. It calculated using the following formula: Energy = Power x Time.

In other words, you can measure electricity by multiplying the amount of required watts by the number of watt-hours used.

Let’s consider a 200-watt incandescent light bulb. In an average month, let’s suppose you’ll use the light bulb for 300 hours.

Energy = 200 watts x 300 hours = 60,000 watt-hours

To convert 60,000 watt-hours to kilowatt-hours, divide 60,000 by 1,000 = 60 kWh.

Nationally, the average cost for one kWh is $.12; therefore, 60 kWh x $.12/kWh = $7.20.

It would cost you $7.20 to use a 200-watt incandescent light bulb for 300 hours in one month.

*Go Green* Tip!

Using CFL bulbs could reduce your electric bill by $35/year!

Your Turn!

The average American home uses between 600-800 kWh of electricity per month. How much would a monthly electric bill be for a home that used 725 kWh in one month?

(Answer: $87)