--- title: Watt (W) | Multiples, Calculation, & Reducing Wattage Consumption description: Watts are a measure of power and this article explains what they are, how to calculate wattage, and tips for reducing wattage consumption. image: https://www.carboncollectiveinvesting.com/hubfs/Watt_(W).png --- [![Carbon collective](https://www.carboncollectiveinvesting.com/hubfs/raw_assets/public/CarbonCollective_August2021%20copy/images/carbon-collective-green-investing-logo-white.4f6047d4.svg "Carbon collective")](https://www.carboncollectiveinvesting.com/) - About - Employers - [Sustainable 401(k)](https://www.carboncollectiveinvesting.com/401k) - [401(k) Comparison Tool](https://www.carboncollectiveinvesting.com/401k/plan-comparison-tool) - Individuals - [FAQ](https://www.carboncollective.co/en/knowledge/faqs) - [ETF](https://www.carboncollectivefunds.com/) - Learn - [Sustainable Investing](https://www.carboncollective.co/sustainable-investing) - [Investing Basics](https://www.carboncollective.co/sustainable-investing/investing-basics) - [Blog](https://blog.carboncollective.co/) - [Tools](https://tools.carboncollective.co/calculator/) - Log in - [Carbon Collective](https://app.carboncollective.co) - [Altruist](https://app.altruist.com) [Talk to a human](https://ask.carboncollective.co/f4o5dylkg) [Sign up](https://app.carboncollective.co/sign-up) [Log In](http://app.carboncollective.co/) [![Carbon collective](https://www.carboncollectiveinvesting.com/hubfs/raw_assets/public/CarbonCollective_August2021%20copy/images/carbon-collective-green-investing-logo.53b28bee.svg "Carbon collective")](https://www.carboncollectiveinvesting.com/) - About - Employers - [Sustainable 401(k)](https://www.carboncollectiveinvesting.com/401k) - [401(k) Comparison Tool](https://www.carboncollectiveinvesting.com/401k/plan-comparison-tool) - Individuals - [FAQ](https://www.carboncollective.co/en/knowledge/faqs) - [ETF](https://www.carboncollectivefunds.com/) - Learn - [Sustainable Investing](https://www.carboncollective.co/sustainable-investing) - [Investing Basics](https://www.carboncollective.co/sustainable-investing/investing-basics) - [Blog](https://blog.carboncollective.co/) - [Tools](https://tools.carboncollective.co/calculator/) - Log in - [Carbon Collective](https://app.carboncollective.co) - [Altruist](https://app.altruist.com) [Talk to a human](https://ask.carboncollective.co/f4o5dylkg) [Sign up](https://app.carboncollective.co/sign-up) [Log In](http://app.carboncollective.co/) **[Home](https://www.carboncollectiveinvesting.com/) > [Sustainable Investing](https://www.carboncollectiveinvesting.com/sustainable-investing) >** Watt (W) # Watt (W) ![](https://www.carboncollectiveinvesting.com/hubfs/zach-stein.jpeg) Written by Zach Stein | Reviewed by [Subject Matter Experts](https://www.carboncollectiveinvesting.com/subject-matter-experts) Updated on October 1, 2024 Fact Checked Why Trust Carbon Collective? ### Table of Contents ## **Watts Definition** Watts (W), the SI-derived unit of power, refer to the rate at which energy is used or generated. One watt is equivalent to 1 joule per second (1 J/s). The term wattage (or watt) was named after James Watt, a Scottish inventor and property developer who improved on Thomas Newcomen's 1712 [steam engine design](https://www.egr.msu.edu/~lira/supp/steam/). A watt is the unit of electrical power equal to one ampere under the pressure of one volt. ## **Common Multiples of Watts** ### **Nanowatt** Nanowatt is a unit of power equal to one billionth of a watt. Examples of powers measured in nanowatts are wireless signals, DC in some integrated circuits, and weak signal detection by radio telescopes. ### **Milliwatt** One milliwatt (mW) is equal to 0.001 watts or one-thousandth of a watt. Milliwatts are often used to express the output power of lasers and light-emitting diodes (LEDs). ### **Kilowatt** One kilowatt (kW) is equal to 1,000 watts. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), the [typical household in the U.S.](https://www.eia.gov/tools/faqs/faq.php?id=97&t=3#:~:text=How%20much%20electricity%20does%20an,about%20893%20kWh%20per%20month.) uses 10,632 kilowatts per year depending on the time of year and use patterns. A month's average is set at about 886 kilowatts. Most appliances that require electricity are rated in units of kilowatts rather than watts. ### **Megawatt** One megawatt (MW) is equal to one million watts which are often used for large commercial and industrial purposes. Machines that use this scale include large electric motors, aircraft carriers, and submarines. ### **Gigawatt** One gigawatt (GW) is equal to one billion watts which are often the units used for the output power of large electric generators. Large cities might use this amount of wattage at an instant while consuming energy. ### **Terawatt** One terawatt (TW) is equal to 1 trillion watts. This unit of power can provide enough electricity to power a small country or city. ## **Calculating Watts** Watts are calculated by multiplying volts and amperes together. In equation form, it is illustrated as: **![Calculating_Wattage](https://www.carboncollectiveinvesting.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Calculating_Wattage.png?width=1920&name=Calculating_Wattage.png)** Volts pertain to the pressure that allows electrons to flow while amperes pertain to the volume flow of electrons. ## **Understanding Low and High Wattage** High wattage means that an appliance uses more electricity than one that is rated at lower wattages. For example, a 100-watt light bulb is brighter and provides more illumination than a 20-watt bulb. More power is consumed when the wattage on appliances is higher. Higher wattages are ideal when you need to make use of electricity to produce heat. Wires and other electrical parts should be able to handle the amount of electricity that is being used when the wattage is high since there can be a risk for fires, burns, and electrocutions. On the other hand, lower wattages are ideal for appliances that use electricity with less power demand. Examples of low-power appliances are chargers, laptops, and cell phone batteries. Low wattages allow the appliance to use energy for a long time since there is less or no need to power high-demand components that produce heat. ## **Benefits of Reducing Wattage Consumption** ### **Reduces Utility Bills** When wattage consumption on home appliances is reduced, it can have a direct impact on utility bills. For example, reducing the wattage for an hour on 20 lights will reduce the energy consumption, thereby also saving a substantial percentage of electricity costs. ### **Reduces Use of Fossil Fuels** Fossil fuels are the [primary source of power generation](https://www.eia.gov/energyexplained/electricity/electricity-and-the-environment.php) which contributes to global warming by emitting carbon dioxide. Reducing wattage consumption means that there will be less power demand, so fossil fuels will not be used to supply the power. ### **Protects the Environment** Aside from reducing energy costs and consumption of fossil fuels, one should also consider protecting the environment when looking for ways to save energy and reduce wattage consumption. This will allow future generations to enjoy the natural beauty of the environment and live a healthier lifestyle. ## **Tips for Reducing Wattage Consumption** ### **Stop Vampire Power** Vampire power means the loss of power drawn from a device when it is plugged in but not in use. Most electronic devices that are plugged into the wall including televisions, microwaves, and computers draw a small amount of power that can add up over time if left plugged in even after being turned off. Switching to smart appliances can reduce this type of power draw. Smart appliances can switch themselves off after being idle for a few hours. Another alternative would be to use an advanced power strip or to cut off the source of power once the device is turned off. ### **Go For LED Bulbs** One of the most efficient ways to reduce wattage consumption is by switching from regular incandescent light bulbs to LED bulbs. LED bulbs are more energy-efficient than incandescent lights, so they will use less wattage while producing the same amount of light or illumination. ### **Invest in Energy-Efficient Devices** Purchase appliances and devices that provide features such as standby mode which allows the device to switch off when not in use. When not in use, the device should switch off and that is when it will be using zero wattage. ### **Switch to Green Power** Another way to reduce energy consumption and power demand is by [subscribing to green power plans](https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/buying-clean-electricity) which means the household would be billed for renewable energy like solar or wind power rather than receiving all its energy from traditional power sources such as fossil fuels. ## **Final Thoughts** Learning the basics about watts and its common multiples is a critical first step to understanding electrical power. Low wattages are ideal for powering appliances that use less electricity. High wattages are required for appliances that demand more power such as heaters and ovens. For these reasons, it is important not to exceed the wattage requirements of appliances and devices in order to avoid unexpected breakdowns. Benefits of reducing wattage consumption include reduced electric bills, less usage of fossil fuels, and protecting the environment from global warming. By following these tips for reducing wattage consumption, you can save money on electricity costs as well as preserve natural resources for future generations. ## **FAQs** ### 1. What is a watt? A watt is a unit of power that describes how much electrical energy an appliance or device uses over time. ### 2. What is the most commonly used multiple of watts? The most commonly used multiple of watts is kilowatts. ### 3. What is high wattage? What is low wattage? High wattage means that a lot of power or energy is being used to run an appliance or device. Low wattage indicates a small amount of power is being used. ### 4. Why is it important to learn about wattage? Knowing about wattage is a critical first step towards understanding electrical power. This will allow one to be mindful of how much electricity certain appliances and devices use over time. In addition, one can make decisions to cut back on energy consumption by using low-wattage devices instead of high wattages. ### 5. What are the limitations of renewable energy sources when it comes to power generation? Some renewable energy sources such as wind and solar power do not produce electricity around the clock or during periods of peak demand. This means they cannot be counted on to produce backup power during these times unless their capacity is increased through technology such as the addition of storage batteries and thermal storage systems. ### Related Topics - [Sustainable Investing](https://www.carboncollective.co/sustainable-investing/) - [Carbon Footprint](https://www.carboncollective.co/sustainable-investing/carbon-footprint) - [Energy Efficiency](https://www.carboncollective.co/sustainable-investing/energy-efficiency) - [Greenhouse Gases](https://www.carboncollective.co/sustainable-investing/greenhouse-gases) - [Net Zero](https://www.carboncollective.co/sustainable-investing/net-zero) - [Renewable Energy Sources](https://www.carboncollective.co/sustainable-investing/renewable-energy-sources) - [Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)](https://www.carboncollective.co/sustainable-investing/sustainable-development-goals-sdgs) ![Attend Our Next Webinar](https://www.carboncollectiveinvesting.com/hubfs/carbon-collective-green-investing-icon-webinar.12af7b6e.svg) ### Attend Our Next Webinar Join our next Sustainable Investing 101 webinar, get our favorite DIY options, and walk through how we build our portfolios. [Watch Now](https://www.carboncollective.co/sustainable-investing-webinar-green-retirement-month) ![Get Our Newsletter](https://www.carboncollectiveinvesting.com/hubfs/carbon-collective-green-investing-icon-demo.6ed28722.svg) ### Get Our Newsletter Go a level deeper with us and investigate the potential impacts of climate change on investments like your retirement account. Join Newsletter ![close-typeform](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhEQARAIAAAODn7P///yH5BAEHAAEALAAAAAARABEAAAIqBIKpab3v3EMyVHWtWZluf0za0XFNKDJfCq5i5JpomdUxqKLQVmInqyoAADs=) ![Talk To A Human](https://www.carboncollectiveinvesting.com/hubfs/carbon-collective-green-investing-icon-chat.49d48c5b.svg) ### Talk To A Human Joining a new investment service can be intimidating. We’re here for you. Click below to email us a question or book a quick call. [Ask a Question](https://ask.carboncollective.co/f70pooobq) Topics ## Sustainable Investing Topics View our list of some topics below. See More - Portfolios - [Performance](https://www.carboncollectiveinvesting.com/returns) - About - [Sustainable 401(k)](https://www.carboncollectiveinvesting.com/401k) - Learn - [FAQ](https://www.carboncollective.co/en/knowledge/faqs) - [Sustainable Investing](https://www.carboncollective.co/sustainable-investing) - [Investing Basics](https://www.carboncollective.co/sustainable-investing/investing-basics) - Contact - [Contact us](mailto:hello@carboncollective.co) - [Legal](https://www.carboncollective.co/legal) - [Privacy Policy](https://www.carboncollectiveinvesting.com/hubfs/2022-11%20Carbon%20Collective%20Privacy%20Policy.pdf) - [Back to top](https://www.carboncollectiveinvesting.com/sustainable-investing/watt-w#top-of-page) DISCLAIMERS: Advisory services provided by Carbon Collective Investment LLC (“Carbon Collective"), an SEC-registered investment adviser. A copy of Carbon Collective's current written disclosure statement discussing Carbon Collective’s business operations, services, and fees is available at the SEC’s investment adviser public information website – [www.adviserinfo.sec.gov](https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/firm/summary/310129) or [our legal documents here](https://blog.carboncollective.co/legal-documents/). The articles and research support materials available on this site are educational and are not intended to be investment or tax advice. Carbon Collective does not make any representations or warranties as to the accuracy, timeliness, suitability, completeness, or relevance of any information prepared by any unaffiliated third party, whether linked to Carbon Collective’s web site or incorporated herein, and takes no responsibility therefor. All such information is provided solely for convenience purposes only and all users thereof should be guided accordingly. Investments in securities: Not FDIC Insured • No Bank Guarantee • May Lose Value. Investing in securities involves risks, and there is always the potential of losing money when you invest in securities. Before investing, consider your investment objectives and Carbon Collective's charges and expenses. Carbon Collective's internet-based advisory services are designed to assist clients in achieving discrete financial goals. They are not intended to provide comprehensive tax advice or financial planning with respect to every aspect of a client's financial situation and do not incorporate specific investments that clients hold elsewhere. For more details, see our Form CRS, Form ADV Part 2 and other disclosures. Past performance does not guarantee future results, and the likelihood of investment outcomes are hypothetical in nature. Not an offer, solicitation of an offer, or advice to buy or sell securities in jurisdictions where Carbon Collective is not registered. © 2026 Carbon Collective Corporation. All rights reserved. × #### Fact Checked Carbon Collective partners with financial and climate experts to ensure the accuracy of our content. Our team of reviewers are established professionals with years of experience in areas of personal finance and climate. They have contributed to top tier financial publications, such as Reuters, Axios, Ag Funder News, Bloomberg, Marketwatch, Yahoo! Finance, and many others. This team of experts helps Carbon Collective maintain the highest level of accuracy and professionalism possible. × #### Why Trust Carbon Collective Carbon Collective is the first online investment advisor 100% focused on solving climate change. We believe that sustainable investing is not just an important climate solution, but a smart way to invest. We follow ethical journalism practices, which includes presenting unbiased information and citing reliable, attributed resources. Much of our research comes from leading organizations in the climate space, such as Project Drawdown and the International Energy Agency (IEA). Our goal is to deliver the most understandable and comprehensive explanations of climate and finance topics. Our writing and editorial staff are a team of experts holding advanced financial designations and have written for most major financial media publications. Our work has been directly cited by organizations including MarketWatch, Bloomberg, Axios, TechCrunch, Forbes, NerdWallet, GreenBiz, Reuters, and many others. We strive to empower readers with the most factual and reliable climate finance information possible to help them make informed decisions. } ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@type" : "Organization", "alternateName" : "Carbon Collective", "contactPoint" : { "@type" : "ContactPoint", "areaServed" : "US", "availableLanguage" : "en", "contactType" : "customer service", "telephone" : "(650) 868-2697" }, "logo" : "https://www.carboncollective.co/hubfs/CarbonCollectiveLogo.png", "name" : "Carbon Collective Investing LLC", "sameAs" : [ "https://www.facebook.com/carboncollectiveinvesting/", "https://twitter.com/carbncollective", "https://www.instagram.com/carbon.collective/", "https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC769Y-F-L_B37kyQfdpvyXA", "https://www.linkedin.com/company/carbon-collective/", "https://www.crunchbase.com/organization/carbon-collective", "https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/firm/summary/310129", "https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q110243690" ], "url" : "https://www.carboncollective.co/" } ``` ```json { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "FAQPage", "mainEntity": [{ "@type": "Question", "name": "1. What is a watt?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "A watt is a unit of power that describes how much electrical energy an appliance or device uses over time." } },{ "@type": "Question", "name": "2. What is the most commonly used multiple of watts?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "The most commonly used multiple of watts is kilowatts." } },{ "@type": "Question", "name": "3. What is high wattage? What is low wattage?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "High wattage means that a lot of power or energy is being used to run an appliance or device. Low wattage indicates a small amount of power is being used." } },{ "@type": "Question", "name": "4. Why is it important to learn about wattage?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Knowing about wattage is a critical first step towards understanding electrical power. This will allow one to be mindful of how much electricity certain appliances and devices use over time. In addition, one can make decisions to cut back on energy consumption by using low-wattage devices instead of high wattages." } },{ "@type": "Question", "name": "5. What are the limitations of renewable energy sources when it comes to power generation?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Some renewable energy sources such as wind and solar power do not produce electricity around the clock or during periods of peak demand. This means they cannot be counted on to produce backup power during these times unless their capacity is increased through technology such as the addition of storage batteries and thermal storage systems." } }] } ``` ```json { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "BlogPosting", "mainEntityOfPage": { "@type": "WebPage", "@id": "https://www.carboncollectiveinvesting.com/sustainable-investing/watt-w" }, "headline": "Watt (W) | Multiples, Calculation, & Reducing Wattage Consumption", "description": "Watts are a measure of power and this article explains what they are, how to calculate wattage, and tips for reducing wattage consumption. ", "image": "https://20345524.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/20345524/Watt_%28W%29.png", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "https://f.hubspotusercontent20.net/hubfs/20345524/zach-stein.jpeg", "url": "https://www.carboncollectiveinvesting.com/sustainable-investing/author/zach-stein" }, "publisher": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "Carbon Collective", "logo": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://www.carboncollective.co/hubfs/CarbonCollectiveLogo.png" } }, "datePublished": "2022-06-27", "dateModified": "2024-10-01" } ```