The beauty of model railroading is there are infinite options on how to enjoy it. I know people who will stick to a particular prototype come heck or high water, while others it's anything goes.
I'm a freelancer for the most part with my railroad set in 50's-60's Kansas and attempted to keep it that way. Eventually, I started letting area prototypes on the railroad along with a couple of long shots. I do try to emulate prototype practices, however.
It works for me for the most part, but I have to say it really comes together when I exile the prototype power from the layout and I just have my freelance power present.
And oh yeah... Every now and then I whip out my GG1 for a spin. I just say there's a Tesla tower nearby broadcasting power to the locomotive.
Rusty