Enter the total gallons of oil (gallons) into the calculator to determine the Energy from Oil. 

Energy from Oil Formula

The following equation is used to calculate the Energy from Oil. 

E = GO * 135500

Variables:

  • Where E is the Energy from Oil (BTUs)
  • GO is the total gallons of oil (gallons) 

To calculate energy from oil, multiply the gallons of oil by 135,500.

How to Calculate Energy from Oil?

The following two example problems outline the steps and information needed in order to calculate the Energy from Oil.

Example Problem #1:

  1. First, determine the total gallons of oil (gallons). In this example, the total gallons of oil (gallons) are measured to be 100.
  2. Finally, calculate the Energy from Oil using the formula above: 

E = GO * 135500

Inserting the values from above and solving the equation with the imputed values gives: 

E = 100 * 135500 = 13,550,000 (BTUs)

FAQ

What is a BTU and why is it used to measure energy from oil?

BTU stands for British Thermal Unit. It is a traditional unit of heat; it is defined as the amount of heat required to raise the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit. It is commonly used in the power, steam generation, heating, and air conditioning industries. In the context of oil energy, BTUs are used because they provide a standard for comparing the energy content of different fuels.

How can the energy content of oil vary?

The energy content of oil can vary based on its grade, density, and composition. Different types of oil, such as crude oil, heating oil, or diesel, have different energy densities and therefore produce different amounts of energy per gallon when burned. The quality of the oil and the presence of other compounds can also affect its energy content.

Are there environmental concerns associated with burning oil for energy?

Yes, there are significant environmental concerns associated with burning oil for energy. The combustion of oil releases greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide, into the atmosphere, contributing to climate change. It can also release pollutants that harm air quality, affecting human health and the environment. Additionally, oil spills during extraction or transportation can have devastating effects on ecosystems. As a result, there is a growing push towards renewable energy sources that are cleaner and more sustainable.