A kilowatt (kW) is a unit measuring electrical power, equal to 1,000 watts. Power measures the rate of energy use at any moment, while kilowatt-hours measure total energy consumed over time. A typical home might use 5-10 kW of power during peak demand, while municipal facilities like recreation centres or water treatment plants require much more. Understanding kilowatts helps facility managers size electrical systems appropriately and plan for power needs. Solar panel and wind turbine capacity is rated in kilowatts, indicating how much power they can generate under ideal conditions. Municipal climate plans often set targets in kilowatts of renewable energy capacity to install.