Convert Megawatts to Metric Horsepower
Megawatts to metric horsepower is the conversion you need when a power-plant or large-motor rating in megawatts has to be read in the metric horsepower (PS) used across Europe. One megawatt is approximately 1359.62 metric horsepower, so the PS number always comes out much larger.
Megawatts to Metric horsepower (PS) conversion table
| Megawatts (MW) | Metric horsepower (PS) (PS) |
|---|---|
| 1 | 1,359.621617 |
| 2 | 2,719.243235 |
| 3 | 4,078.864852 |
| 5 | 6,798.108087 |
| 10 | 13,596.216173 |
| 20 | 27,192.432346 |
| 50 | 67,981.080865 |
| 100 | 135,962.16173 |
| 500 | 679,810.808652 |
| 1,000 | 1,359,621.617304 |
The formula
To convert megawatts to metric horsepower, multiply the number of megawatts by 1359.62:
metric horsepower = megawatts × 1359.62
A worked example
Say you have 1 megawatt and want it in metric horsepower:
1 × 1359.62 = 1359.62 PS
So 1 megawatt is approximately 1359.62 metric horsepower.
Why it's an approximation
Metric horsepower (PS) is defined as about 735.5 watts, and that value doesn't divide evenly into a megawatt. So one megawatt comes out to roughly 1359.62 PS, with the exact figure running on past the decimals shown. That's why the number stays approximate. Watch out for the other horsepower: mechanical horsepower (hp) is about 745.7 watts, roughly 1.4% larger, so it gives a different result.
When you'll use it
Reading a power-plant or large-motor rating in megawatts against the metric horsepower (PS) used for engines and machinery across Europe.
Frequently asked questions
How many metric horsepower are in a megawatt?
About 1359.62 metric horsepower (PS). It's a rounded figure — the exact value runs on past several decimal places, so 1359.62 is the practical number to use.
How is metric horsepower different from regular horsepower?
Metric horsepower (PS) is the European unit, about 735.5 watts. Mechanical horsepower (hp), the imperial unit used in the US and UK, is about 745.7 watts — roughly 1.4% larger. Because they're different sizes, a megawatt is about 1359.62 PS but only about 1341.02 hp. Check which one your spec means.
Is the megawatts to metric horsepower conversion exact?
No. One megawatt works out to roughly 1359.62 metric horsepower, and the full value keeps going past the decimals shown, so 1359.62 is rounded for everyday use.