The legislative authority of a municipal corporation may erect gasworks or electric works at the expense of the municipal corporation, or purchase any such works already erected therein.
If the legislative authority and the owner of such works are unable to agree upon the compensation to be paid therefor, the legislative authority may proceed in the manner provided in sections 163.01 to 163.22, inclusive, of the Revised Code. A contract existing between any village and such person, company, or corporation for the public or street lighting shall be considered as an element of value in fixing the compensation to be paid for such works.
R.C. §743.34