A firm that purchases electricity from the local utility for $300,000 per year is considering installing a steam generator at a cost of $260,000. The cost of operating this generator would be $210,000 per year, and the generator will last for five years. If the firm buys the generator, it does not need to purchase any electricity from the local utility. The cost of capital is 11%. For the local utility option, consider five years of electricity purchases. For the generator option, assume immediate installation, with purchase and operating costs in the current year and operating costs continuing for the next four years. Assume payments under both options at the start of each year (i. e., immediate, one year from now,..., four years from now). What is the net present value of the more attractive choice?

The net present value of the more attractive choice is:

= $1,108,800 (paying for local utility)

Explanation:

a) Data and Calculations:

Project period = 5 years

Cost of capital = 11%

                                             Local Utility   Steam Generator

Operating cost per year        $300,000           $210,000

Cost of steam generator                                  $260,000

PV (annuity factor

at 11% for 5 years)                      3.696

PV (annuity factor

at 11% for 4 years)                                                 3.102

Present value                       $1,108,800 ($300,000 * 3.696)

Present value of steam generator/

operating cost for the 1st year                        $470,000

Present value of operating cost for 4 years      651,420 ($210,000 * 3.102)

Net present value               $1,108,800           $1,121,420

Paying for the local utility is more attractive with a net present value savings of $12,620 ($1,121,420 - $1,108,800)

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