Question

Two methods can be used for producing solar panels for electric power generation. Method 1 will have an initial cost of $550,000, an annual operating cost of $160,000 per year, and $125,000 salvage value after its three-year life. Method 2 will cost $830,000 with an annual operating cost of $120,000. and a $240,000 salvage value after its five-year life. The company has asked you to determine which method is better, but it Wants the analysis done over a three-year planning period. The salvage value of Method 2 will be 35% higher after three years than it is after five years. If the company's minimum attractive rate of return is 10% per year, which method should the company select?

Answer 1

Answer:

the company should choose method 1

Explanation:

                                                  Method 1                Method 2

Initial outlay                              $550,000               $830,000

operating costs (years 1,2,3)    $160,000                $120,000

salvage value                            $125,000               $324,000

we must determine which alternative has the lowest present value:

method 1 = $550,000 + $160,000/1.1 + $160,000/1.1² + $160,000/1.1³ - $125,000/1.1³ = $550,000 + $145,455 + $132,231 + $120,210 - $93,914 =  $853,982

method 2 = $830,000 + $120,000/1.1 + $120,000/1.1² + $120,000/1.1³ - $324,000/1.1³ = $830,000 + $109,091 + $99,174 + $90,158 - $243,426 = $884,996