Cost and energy estimates

Copper vs Aluminum Wire Cost Calculator

Compare user-entered copper and aluminum material plus termination costs over an entered conductor route length.

User-entered cost assumptions

Enter project values

ft
$/ft
$
$/ft
$

Alternative installation cost

Lower entered total cost
Aluminum: 320 $
Copper alternative total440 $
Aluminum alternative total320 $
Cost difference120 $
Estimate onlyAll prices, operating assumptions, efficiency values, and savings inputs are user supplied. Copper/aluminum cost comparison does not check electrical equivalence or installation suitability; lighting savings do not verify photometric equivalence.

About this calculator

Compare user-entered copper and aluminum material plus termination costs over an entered conductor route length.

The alternatives are not assumed electrically equivalent. This calculator does not size conductors, verify ampacity, compare required conductor sizes, or evaluate terminals and installation methods.

Method and assumptions

Each alternative total = entered length × material cost per foot + entered termination and related cost. The calculator reports both totals and their difference.

Results use only the user-entered prices, rates, equipment power, efficiencies, and operating schedule. They are estimates for comparison, not a bid, guarantee, or project approval.

FAQs

Are the prices or energy rates prefilled market averages?

No. Enter current project quotes, your applicable electricity rate, maintenance estimates, and operating assumptions.

Does this prove the alternatives are technically equivalent?

No. Check electrical ratings, conductor suitability, equipment listings, photometric results, and manufacturer instructions separately.

Sources

Use current supplier quotations, utility tariff information, equipment data, and project operating records for the values entered.