Problem:
Thornley Machines is considering a 3-year project with an initial cost of $660,000. The project will not directly produce any sales but will reduce operating costs by $400,000 a year. The equipment is depreciated straight-line to a zero book value over the life of the project. At the end of the project the equipment will be sold for an estimated $72,000. The tax rate is 34 percent. The project will require $16,000 in extra inventory for spare parts and accessories. Should this project be implemented if Thornley's requires a rate of return of 12 percent? Why or why not? Please provide step by step solution and also explain in detail.