Diesel generators in kW
Choosing a diesel generator from kW: with a power factor of 0.8, kVA = kW ÷ 0.8. Table from 20 to 2,000 kW, models and quotes.
Generator catalogues give power in kVA, while the power of equipment is usually known in kW. The table below gives the kVA equivalent of the most searched kW values and links to the matching power page; you can then request a quote.
Difference between kW and kVA
kW is the active power, the power your equipment actually uses. kVA is the apparent power. Generators are sized with a power factor of 0.8: kVA = kW ÷ 0.8 and kW = kVA × 0.8.
Calculation examples
- 80 kW ÷ 0.8 = 100 kVA
- 250 kW ÷ 0.8 = 312.5 kVA. The catalogue has no model with exactly this power; the nearest standby ratings are 305 kVA and 330 kVA.
- 400 kW ÷ 0.8 = 500 kVA
If the generator will run for long periods, choose by prime power. If you do not know the power you need, use our generator power calculator; for details see standby, prime and continuous power.
kW to kVA conversion table (power factor 0.8)
kVA = kW ÷ 0.8. Each row links to the power (kVA) page that covers that value.
| Active power (kW) | Apparent power (kVA) | Power page |
|---|---|---|
| 20 kW | 25 kVA | 30 kVA (24 kW) |
| 30 kW | 37.5 kVA | 30 kVA (24 kW) |
| 40 kW | 50 kVA | 50 kVA (40 kW) |
| 50 kW | 62.5 kVA | 75 kVA (60 kW) |
| 60 kW | 75 kVA | 75 kVA (60 kW) |
| 80 kW | 100 kVA | 100 kVA (80 kW) |
| 100 kW | 125 kVA | 150 kVA (120 kW) |
| 120 kW | 150 kVA | 150 kVA (120 kW) |
| 150 kW | 187.5 kVA | 200 kVA (160 kW) |
| 200 kW | 250 kVA | 250 kVA (200 kW) |
| 250 kW | 312.5 kVA | 400 kVA (320 kW) |
| 300 kW | 375 kVA | 400 kVA (320 kW) |
| 400 kW | 500 kVA | 500 kVA (400 kW) |
| 500 kW | 625 kVA | 650 kVA (520 kW) |
| 600 kW | 750 kVA | 800 kVA (640 kW) |
| 800 kW | 1000 kVA | 1000 kVA (800 kW) |
| 1000 kW | 1250 kVA | 1250 kVA (1000 kW) |
| 1200 kW | 1500 kVA | 1500 kVA (1200 kW) |
| 1500 kW | 1875 kVA | 2000 kVA (1600 kW) |
| 2000 kW | 2500 kVA | 2500 kVA (2000 kW) |
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between kW and kVA?
kW is the active power, the power your equipment actually uses. kVA is the apparent power; generator catalogues give power in kVA. With a power factor of 0.8: kW = kVA × 0.8 and kVA = kW ÷ 0.8.
How many kVA is a 250 kW generator?
With a power factor of 0.8, 250 kW ≈ 312.5 kVA. Our catalogue has no model with exactly 312.5 kVA standby power; the nearest standby ratings are 305 kVA and 330 kVA.
Which generator should I choose if I know the power in kW?
Divide the kW value by 0.8 to get the required kVA, then choose the model whose standby power is equal to or just above that value. If the generator will run for long periods, choose by prime power.