engineering Calculator

Electrical Cost Calculator

Calculate the true recurring operating cost of industrial or residential electrical machinery.

Audited by UniqCalc Methodology Team • Formula Checked • Free & No Registration Required

Verified Mathematical Model & Formulation

Operating Cost = (kW Load × Operating Hours) × Electricity Rate ($/kWh)

Calculates the real-time financial burden of industrial machinery, factoring in power factor (PF) and mechanical load percentage.

Configurable Parameters & Standard Units

  • Connected Electrical Load (kW): (Default: 15 kw)
  • Average Load Factor (%): (Default: 80 percent)
  • Operating Hours per Day: (Default: 10 hours)
  • Operating Days per Month: (Default: 22 count)
  • Electricity Tariff ($/kWh): (Default: 0.14 usd)

Standard Worked Example & Practical Verification

Scenario: A 25 HP (18.6 kW) screw compressor running 16 hours/day, 250 days/year at 75% load factor and $0.12/kWh.

Calculated Solution
$6,696 Annual Power Cost

Practical Takeaway: The electricity to run an industrial compressor often exceeds its purchase price within the first 18 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does electricity cost often exceed equipment purchase price?

Continuous heavy electric motors convert substantial energy over a 10-15 year lifespan. Electricity commonly accounts for 70% to 85% of an industrial motor’s total life-cycle cost.