The expression “watts per hour” is conceptually flawed. Watts represent a unit of power, which is the rate at which energy is used or produced. Power is already a measure of energy over time (joules per second). Therefore, dividing watts by time (hours) yields a unit that describes the change in power over that duration, not energy consumption. To understand energy usage, it’s more accurate to determine watt-hours, which is calculated by multiplying the power (watts) by the time (hours) it’s used. For example, a 100-watt light bulb used for 5 hours consumes 500 watt-hours of energy.
Understanding energy consumption is vital for managing energy costs, designing efficient systems, and minimizing environmental impact. Historically, this knowledge has enabled industries to optimize processes, reducing waste and improving resource allocation. Furthermore, calculating energy use enables consumers to make informed choices about appliance selection and usage habits, contributing to lower electricity bills and a smaller carbon footprint.