Average Rate of Return-Cost Savings Midwest Fabricators Inc. is considering an investment in equipment that will replace direct labor. The equipment has a cost of $123,000 with a $11,000 residual value and a five-year life. The equipment will replace one employee who has an average wage of $40,970 per year. In addition, the equipment will have operating and energy costs of $11,870 per year. Determine the average rate of return on the equipment, giving effect to straight-line depreciation on the investment. If required, round to the nearest whole percent. 5.45 X % Feedback Check My Work Divide the estimated average annual income by the average investment. Average savings less depreciation expense less additional operating costs equals average annual income