Kilovolt

Kilovolt, abbreviated kV, is the SI unit of electric potential difference equal to 1,000 volts. It is a multiple of the volt, with the prefix kilo- representing 10^3. The symbol is written as kV, with lowercase k and uppercase V, following SI conventions.

In electrical engineering, kilovolts are used to describe high-voltage levels in power generation, transmission, and distribution. Transmission lines commonly operate at tens to hundreds of kilovolts; distribution networks may use 11 kV, 33 kV, 132 kV, or 400 kV in modern systems. Kilovolts can be present in both alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) applications. Voltage ratings on equipment such as circuit breakers, transformers, insulators, and cables are specified in kilovolts.

Measuring kilovolts requires appropriately rated instruments and safety protocols, since high voltages pose serious shock and arc flash hazards. Insulation, clearance distances, and enclosure design must be adequate for the operating kV. In calculations, kilovolts are used as the potential difference V in formulas such as P = V × I; multiplying by current yields power in watts, or kilovolt-amperes when using kilovolts and amperes.

1 kV equals 1,000 V; 1 MV equals 1,000 kV. Kilovolt is not a unit of energy or charge, but of potential difference; high-voltage engineering often employs kilovolt ratings to designate system voltage and equipment insulation requirements.