Sager Industries is considering an investment in equipment that will replace direct labor. The equipment has a cost of $1,200,000 with a $300,000 residual value and a 10-year life. The equipment will replace three employees who has an average total wages of $180,000 per year. In addition, the equipment will have operating and energy costs of $7,500 per year.

Determine the average rate of return on the equipment, giving effect to straight-line depreciation on the investment.

____________%