Definition: ACWP stands for Annual Capital Expense. It's a method to determine the total annualized cost of a capital project or investment, as well as its lifetime return on investment. The concept was first introduced by the Australian Institute of Company Secretaries in 1952 and has since been used by many other countries with varying degrees of adoption. An ACWP is calculated by subtracting the original investment from the net present value (NPV) of the capital project, multiplied by a discount rate. The result is then divided by one minus the NPV to get the lifetime return on investment (LROI). This formula can be applied in various contexts, including financing decisions, estimating costs and benefits, evaluating the impact of investments, and preparing budgetary plans. The primary advantage of ACWP is its simplicity and ease of use. It requires only basic financial calculations and does not require extensive knowledge of mathematical concepts such as compound interest or discounting. However, it may be less accurate than other methods of capitalization, particularly for large or complex projects due to its reliance on the NPV. The calculation of an ACWP is a key part of capital budgeting processes. It helps to ensure that any investment decision made in future years aligns with the broader financial picture and can provide a more informed basis for making strategic decisions.