The cost of arc lighting and general service from medium and small size municipal or private plants

Much attention has been given to the large power plant in technical publications. This paper, on the other hand, will consider the costs of lighting and general service from the numerous small plants where the cost of service is so frequently and persistently referred to, not only before the plants are constructed but periodically during the operating life and also every time a lighting or power contract is let, a new unit is added or other extensions are proposed. As an example of this, at every renewal of arc lighting contracts with private plants there is generally severe competition and rates must be right to retain this business. Franchises for lighting and power generally go with the arc lighting contract, and if the latter business is lost, competition in all other branches is immediately introduced. This means furnishing arc lighting at little or no profit in many cases in order to retain the incandescent and power business which should in this case make a profit for the entire plant.