Quick Answer: Megawatt-peak to Kilowatt-peak
One megawatt-peak equals 1,000 kilowatt-peak (1 MWp = 1,000 kWp).
Conversely, 1 kWp = 0.001 MWp.
Formula: kWp = MWp × 1,000
Worked examples
- 0.1 MWp = 100 kWp
- 0.25 MWp = 250 kWp
- 0.5 MWp = 500 kWp
Method and limitations
Megawatt-peak and kilowatt-peak both describe the DC nameplate output of a solar array under Standard Test Conditions. The step between them is a plain SI prefix: multiply MWp by 1,000 to get kWp. Calculations use full-precision constants; answers in this box are rounded for readability (≈ marks a rounded value) and the calculator shows up to 9 significant figures.
Each factor is exact by definition, derived from exact definitions, or a documented conventional value — see the methodology and sources.
Conversion Formula
Megawatt-peak and kilowatt-peak both describe the DC nameplate output of a solar array under Standard Test Conditions. The step between them is a plain SI prefix: multiply MWp by 1,000 to get kWp.
Complete Guide to Megawatt-peak to Kilowatt-peak Conversion
What is a megawatt-peak?
Megawatt-peak (MWp) is the DC nameplate capacity of a solar installation measured at Standard Test Conditions. It is the unit used for utility-scale and large commercial projects.
What is a kilowatt-peak?
Kilowatt-peak (kWp) is the same DC peak rating expressed in kilowatts. It is the unit used for residential and small commercial arrays, and the unit most subsidy schemes and grid connection forms ask for.
How the Conversion Works
Both units measure the same physical quantity, so the conversion is only a prefix change: 1 MWp = 1,000 kWp. Nothing about panel efficiency, orientation or inverter sizing enters the calculation.
Why This Conversion Matters
Project documents, tenders and grid applications mix the two units freely. Converting to a single unit is the first step before comparing capex per watt, expected yield or payback between a residential and a commercial quote.
Step-by-Step Conversion Guide
Follow these steps to convert megawatt-peak to kilowatt-peak manually:
Start with your value in megawatt-peak
Example: You want to convert 0.5 MWp
Apply the conversion formula
Use the formula: kWp = MWp × 1,000
Calculate the result
0.5 MWp = 500 kWp
Verify your answer
Use our calculator above to double-check your manual calculation.
Quick Mental Math Tip
Megawatt-peak and kilowatt-peak both describe the DC nameplate output of a solar array under Standard Test Conditions. The step between them is a plain SI prefix: multiply MWp by 1,000 to get kWp.
Common Conversions
| Megawatt-peak (MWp) | Kilowatt-peak (kWp) | Kilowatt-peak → Megawatt-peak |
|---|---|---|
| 0.1 MWp | 100 | 0.1 kWp = 0.0001 MWp |
| 0.25 MWp | 250 | 0.25 kWp = 0.00025 MWp |
| 0.5 MWp | 500 | 0.5 kWp = 0.0005 MWp |
| 1 MWp | 1,000 | 1 kWp = 0.001 MWp |
| 2 MWp | 2,000 | 2 kWp = 0.002 MWp |
| 2.5 MWp | 2,500 | 2.5 kWp = 0.0025 MWp |
| 5 MWp | 5,000 | 5 kWp = 0.005 MWp |
| 10 MWp | 10,000 | 10 kWp = 0.01 MWp |
| 20 MWp | 20,000 | 20 kWp = 0.02 MWp |
| 50 MWp | 50,000 | 50 kWp = 0.05 MWp |
| 100 MWp | 100,000 | 100 kWp = 0.1 MWp |
Frequently Asked Questions
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Conversion factors on this page are either exact by definition, derived from exact definitions, or conventional values in documented use. Each is listed with its source in our conversion methodology and sources, which cites the BIPM SI Brochure, NIST Special Publication 811 and the relevant IEC or national standards. Results are rounded for display only; calculations use full precision.