On at least one of my cousin's farm fields, there's a single phase induction motor connected to a 3-phase alternator out on the power line pole across the dirt road from the field, to provide 3-phase power where there's only single-phase service. It's not crazy.

(I think perhaps his irrigation pivot needs 3-phase power. I'm pretty sure all of his well pumps are run by de-tuned automotive engines converted to run on natural gas.)