Single-phase versus three-phase generation for single-phase railways

The introduction of the alternating-current single-phase railway motor calling for a single-phase secondary distribution system makes it pertinent to inquire into the question of power generation and primary distribution for such systems. While the simplicity of single-phase generation and distribution is unquestioned, it is not always possible or desirable in these days of general power distribution to install a generating station and primary distribution system capable of taking care of alternating-current railway load alone, to the exclusion of synchronous converters and other receiving machinery requiring three-phase input.