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If you’re considering solar power in Alberta — whether in Calgary, Edmonton, or a rural area — you’ll quickly come across two important terms: kW and kWh. While they look similar, they mean very different things. And misunderstanding the difference is one of the most common sources of confusion for homeowners exploring solar energy. At Solar YYC, part of our mission is to empower Alberta homeowners with clear, honest information. So let’s break it down in simple terms. What Is a kW? kW stands for kilowatt. This is a measurement of power — the rate at which energy is produced or used. In the context of solar, your system’s size is measured in kilowatts. For example, a typical residential solar system in Alberta might be 6 kW. This means that under ideal sunlight conditions, your system can produce 6 kilowatts of power at a given moment. Think of it like a car’s horsepower — it tells you the maximum output at any given time. What Is a kWh? kWh stands for kilowatt-hour. This is a measurement of energy — the amount of electricity used or produced over time. If your 6 kW system runs at full power for one hour, it will generate 6 kWh of electricity. Your utility bill is measured in kWh. So when you look at how much electricity your home uses each month or year, you’re seeing kilowatt-hours. A Quick Analogy of kW and kWh Think of it like this: You can drive 100 km/h (kW) for one hour and travel 100 km (kWh). The power is instantaneous; the energy is accumulated over time. Why the Difference Matters for Solar in Alberta Understanding this distinction is critical when designing and sizing a solar system. Here’s how: For example: Common Misunderstandings of kW and kWh ❌ “My home uses 10,000 kWh a year, so I need a 10,000 kW system.”✅ Actually, you might only need a 7–8 kW system to generate that much energy annually. ❌ “A bigger kW system means lower utility bills every day.”✅ True in general — but production varies day to day, especially in winter. Solar is a long-term play, measured year over year. How We Help You Understand Your Solar Potential At Solar YYC, we analyze your actual energy usage (in kWh) and design a system (in kW) tailored to your needs, your roof, and Alberta’s unique solar climate. We make it easy to understand how much power your system will generate — and what it means for your bottom line. Final Thoughts If you’re a homeowner in Calgary, Edmonton, or anywhere in Alberta, knowing the difference between kW and kWh will help you make smarter decisions about your solar investment. You don’t need to be an engineer — that’s our job — but having a basic understanding puts you in control.Still have questions about solar sizing, energy usage, or production estimates?Contact Solar YYC for a free quote and personalized solar analysis. We’ll explain everything — no jargon, no pressure, just clear answers.