The watt is one joule per second.
Watts to Megawatts Converter — W to MW
Convert Watt (W) to Megawatt (MW) using the exact conversion factor (1 watt = 0.000001 megawatt). See the formula, worked examples, conversion table, history, and common uses.
Watts to Megawatts converter
Converter
Power Converter
Convert watts, horsepower, refrigeration tons, BTU per hour, and engineering power units.
Context values
Some unit families need one extra value for a physically accurate result.
Megawatt is 1000000 watt units.
Result = input x 1 / 1e+6.
Power uses the watt as the base unit.
Reserved above the conversion cards and below the converter.
About Converting Watts to Megawatts
Watt and Megawatt both describe power output, and the conversion is a routine part of comparing an engine or motor's spec sheet across countries that use different power units. Watt is most often used for electrical appliance power ratings worldwide.
Formula
megawatts = watts × 0.000001
This factor comes from each unit's defined relationship to the category's base unit: 1 watt equals 1 base unit, and 1 megawatt equals 1000000 base units, so dividing one by the other gives the direct watt-to-megawatt factor of 0.000001.
Simple example
1 W × 0.000001 = 0.000001 MW
1 watt = 0.000001 megawatts.
Real-world example
100 W × 0.000001 = 0.0001 MW
100 watts = 0.0001 megawatts.
Conversion table
| Watt (W) | Megawatt (MW) |
|---|---|
| 1 W | 0.000001 MW |
| 10 W | 0.00001 MW |
| 100 W | 0.0001 MW |
| 500 W | 0.0005 MW |
| 1,000 W | 0.001 MW |
| 5,000 W | 0.005 MW |
Reverse conversion: Megawatt to Watt
0.000001 MW × 1000000 = 1 W
0.000001 megawatts = 1 watt.
watts = megawatts × 1000000
For a page dedicated to this direction, see Megawatt to Watt.
Understanding the Watt
Watt (W) measures power. The watt is the SI derived unit of power: one joule of energy per second. It is classified as a SI derived unit.
Where it's used: Standard scientific and everyday power unit worldwide
Uses of the Watt today
- Electrical appliance power ratings worldwide
- Light bulb brightness-equivalent labeling
- Engine and motor power specifications (alongside horsepower)
History of the Watt
The watt is named after James Watt, whose improvements to the steam engine in the late 18th century were commercially pivotal; ironically, Watt himself used horsepower (a unit he helped popularize) to market his engines. The watt was formally adopted as a unit at the 1889 General Conference on Weights and Measures and became the SI derived unit of power in the 20th century.
Historical origin. Watt was not the invention of a single named person; it developed through the process described above.
Understanding the Megawatt (MW)
Megawatt is 1000000 watt units.
Watt — sources
- BIPM SI Brochure — Coherent derived units — Defines the watt as the SI unit of power.
Reserved between the cards and the FAQ so the page stays balanced.
Frequently asked questions
How many megawatts are in 1 watt?
1 watt equals 0.000001 megawatts, using the exact defined conversion factor rather than an estimate.
How do I convert watt to megawatt?
Multiply the watt value by 0.000001. The converter above does this instantly to whatever precision you set.
How do I convert megawatt back to watt?
Use the reverse factor: 1 megawatt equals 1,000,000 watts. You can also use the swap control in the converter above to flip the direction instantly.
What is a watt?
Watt (W) measures power. The watt is the SI derived unit of power: one joule of energy per second. It is classified as a SI derived unit.
What is a megawatt?
Megawatt (MW) is a unit of power.
Is the watt to megawatt conversion exact?
Yes. Both watt and megawatt are defined by fixed standards rather than physical artifacts, so the factor of 0.000001 used above is exact to as many digits as you choose to display.
Where is the watt still used today?
Standard scientific and everyday power unit worldwide