Tip · 04
kWh vs. kW: the two numbers on your bill
Your commercial bill probably shows two numbers that look alike: kWh and kW. They're not the same thing.
The difference
kWh (usage) is how much electricity you used over the whole billing period.
kW (demand) is your peak, the most power you pulled at one time. It's usually averaged over a short window, like 15 minutes.
Think of it like a car. kWh is the miles you drove all month. kW is your top speed.
Why it matters
Why care? On many commercial accounts, the utility bills part of its delivery charge on demand.
So a short burst, like every big machine and AC unit starting at 7 AM, can set the demand number for the whole month.
What to look at
- Find both numbers on your bill.
- Check last year's history chart, if your bill has one, for months where demand jumps.
- If big equipment all starts at once, ask whether staggering it is practical. It can affect the demand number on your bill.
Questions about yours?
Call me. Your bill. Your usage. Your price.
There's no cost to you. The supplier pays me, and it's built into the rate.
Not cute. Correct.
Vee
Feral Watt
(346) 694-5454
