jgharston wrote:


But of course, it won't happen because it's sensible,
and "politics" directs energy policy, not engineering.
I'm sure than if this was the 1930s we'd never get
the National Grid built, and there'd be more than a
dozen socket outlet, power and frequency standards
across the country.

There were, in effect, when it all started pre 1900.

London had a variety of 2 phase (90 degree), 3 phase and DC systems
(including variations within such as X-0-X volt distribution to customers
like the US) all with a variery of voltages - all based on small local
networks being supplied from one generator who dealt directly with its
customers.

Apparantly unifying that lot into a single 3 phase system was a major
undertaking that took a very long time to sort out. And that's just London.

--
Tim Watts