Power Supply
The original power equipment consisted of engine-driven direct-current generators, which have gradually been retired due to obsolescence.
Rapid Transit Lines Operated by New York Consolidated R. R. Co.
Power for operating the B. R. T. system is now generated in two alternating-current plants with installed capacities as follows:
| Central (Third Av. & 2nd. St.) | 16,500 kw. |
| Williamsburg (Kent Av. & Rush St.) | 182,500 kw. |
Power is generated and transmitted at 6600 volts, 25 cycles, three-phase. Owing to the diversified feeding system it is not possible to estimate the portion used by the elevated and surface lines. Power for the operation of the Manhattan lines is purchased from the Interborough Rapid Transit Co.
Substations
For supplying 600 volts to the entire system the B. R. T. has in operation 98 synchronous converter units aggregating 142,500 kw. These units range in size from 500 to 4000 kw. each. Many of the stations feed both elevated and surface lines so that it is difficult to approximate the capacity available for the rapid transit service.