Electricity is one of the most important things to understand before using a GPU for distributed computing. GPU power use is not a single fixed number: it changes with the hardware, workload, settings, and time spent under load.
A small or older GPU can use much less electricity than a high-performance GPU. The rated power of a GPU is useful for understanding its potential maximum or typical range, but actual consumption depends on what the GPU is doing.
A GPU sitting at the desktop may use far less power than the same GPU running a demanding compute workload. If Lucenus is using your GPU for an eligible workload, the additional electricity cost depends on how much power your system draws while doing that work.
A basic estimate is: electricity cost = power in kilowatts × hours of use × your electricity price per kilowatt-hour. For example, a computer using an additional 0.30 kW for 10 hours would consume about 3 kWh during that period. Your actual result will depend on the real measured power draw.
The GPU is only part of your system. Your CPU, memory, motherboard, storage, fans, monitor, and power supply also use electricity. For a realistic calculation, consider the additional power used by the whole computer while participating.
If you earn money from computing capacity, electricity is a business cost. The amount you earn should be considered alongside the power required to provide that capacity. A workload that produces revenue but costs nearly as much in electricity may not be attractive.
For the most useful estimate, check your GPU specifications and, when possible, measure actual system power draw. Then use your local electricity rate. Your results will be more useful than a generic online estimate because electricity prices and hardware configurations vary.
A powerful GPU can have greater earning potential when its capacity is in demand, but it can also consume more electricity. Profitability depends on the relationship between actual earnings and actual operating costs.
Before putting a GPU to work, understand both sides of the equation: how much computing capacity it can provide and how much electricity it consumes. Lucenus earnings can vary, so use your own hardware and electricity costs when evaluating the opportunity.