A recent article in the Dublin Daily Mail highlighted the success of Limerick’s electric lighting department, suggesting that the city was profiting from its electric light operations. However, it is essential to clarify that this statement may not be entirely accurate, and a more comprehensive view of the situation is needed.

At a recent meeting of the Limerick Corporation, Mayor Alderman Joyce discussed the progress made by the Electric Lighting Department. He noted that in the first quarter of the previous year, the department had earned £695 for power purposes alone, while in the corresponding quarter of the current year, the earnings had increased to £1,122. The Mayor expressed optimism about the department’s future, mentioning plans to acquire another powerful engine, which could potentially boost annual revenue by £5,000. As a result, the Corporation decided to apply for an additional loan of £5,000 to purchase this engine and associated equipment.

While this development may seem like a thriving business venture, it is crucial to provide some context and clarification. The Dublin Daily Mail’s statement may mislead readers into thinking that Limerick’s electric lighting department is already profitable. However, the reality is more complex.

The article does not consider the full financial picture of Limerick’s electric lighting venture. While there has been an increase in revenue for the first quarter of the current year, it is essential to examine the department’s financial performance over a more extended period. A comprehensive analysis reveals that, for the twelve-month period from March 1905 to March 1906, the electric lighting department operated at a loss of approximately £890 when accounting for all expenses and interest on loans.

Therefore, it is inaccurate to claim that Limerick is currently making money from its electric lighting operations. While the recent increase in revenue is a positive sign, it does not yet translate into profitability when considering the department’s overall financial performance. The planned expansion with an additional engine and improved power distribution may indeed lead to increased earnings in the future, but as of now, the electric lighting department is not generating profits on the scale suggested in the article.

Limerick Echo – Tuesday 19 June 1906