Cost to run a Dell PowerEdge R720 (2U server)
A Dell PowerEdge R720 (2U server) (Rack server) draws roughly 110 W at idle and up to 250 W under load. Run 24/7 at a typical ~152 W and the US average of $0.17/kWh, it uses about 1,332 kWh a year and costs roughly $226.36/year ($18.86/month). In higher-priced regions such as Germany (€0.40/kWh) the same device costs about €532.61/year. Adjust the calculator for your own draw and electricity price.
Source: HomelabWatts wattage database. Data as of 2026-06-13.
Popular used 2U enterprise server — powerful but a real electricity bill.
Idle vs load running cost
| Scenario | Power | Energy / year | Cost / year (US) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Idle | 110 W | 964 kWh | $163.81 |
| Typical 24/7 | 152 W | 1,332 kWh | $226.36 |
| Full load | 250 W | 2,190 kWh | $372.30 |
Dual-socket configs idle high. Exact draw depends on CPUs, RAM sticks and drive count. A common reason people downsize their lab. Source: HomelabWatts wattage database, data as of 2026-06-13.
Cost by region (typical 24/7 draw)
| Region | Price/kWh | Cost / month | Cost / year |
|---|---|---|---|
| United States (avg residential) | $0.17 | $18.86 | $226.36 |
| Germany | €0.40 | €44.38 | €532.61 |
| France | €0.28 | €31.07 | €372.83 |
| United Kingdom | £0.25 | £27.74 | £332.88 |
| Spain | €0.25 | €27.74 | €332.88 |
Prices from electricity price presets (EIA / Eurostat), data as of 2026-06-01. Excludes standing charges and taxes.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to run a Dell PowerEdge R720 (2U server) per year?
At a typical 24/7 draw of about 152 W and the US average of $0.17/kWh, roughly $226.36 per year ($18.86/month). At €0.40/kWh in Germany it is about €532.61. Use the calculator above for your own price.
How many watts does a Dell PowerEdge R720 (2U server) use?
Approximately 110 W at idle and up to 250 W under load. Dual-socket configs idle high. Exact draw depends on CPUs, RAM sticks and drive count. A common reason people downsize their lab.
Are these figures measured or estimated?
Estimated. They are compiled from manufacturer specifications and community wall-meter measurements; your exact draw depends on configuration, firmware and attached storage. Measure at the wall for a precise figure.
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Last updated: 2026-06-13