Service Policies
CONTENTS
- Purpose
- Scope
- Revision
- Conflict
- Privacy Policy
- Applications
- Membership
- Service
- Refusal
- Deposits
- Pay Required Amount
- Letter of Credit
- Co-Signer
- Signup for Electronic Funds Transfer
- Arrangement
- Billing
- Budget Payment Plan
- Preferred Billing Date
- Request for Records
- Payment Options
- Termination of Service
- Termination Criteria
- Initial Notification
- Notice of Termination
- Emergency Medical Certificate
- Processing Notice of Termination
- Contact Prior to Termination
- Designation of Third Party to Receive Notice
- Information Relating to Financial Assistance
- Installment Payments - Past Due Amounts
- Non-Pay Disconnect
- NSF’s and Returned Bank Items
- Dispute Resolution
- Restriction on Residential Service Termination
- Requirements for Restoration of Service
- Service Charge
- Adjustments
- Taxes
- Billing Errors
- Transfer of Balance Owing
- Resale of Energy
- Rights-of-way and Rights-of-access
- Damage to Midstate Electric Property
- Damage to Members Property
- Security Lights
- Attachments to Midstate Electric Property
- Additional Load
- Highly Fluctuating Load
- Interruptions of Service
- Notice of Trouble
- Member's Power Outage
- Reconnects-Same Member Same Service Address
- Radio and TV Reception Interference
- Meters
- Meter Testing
- Meter Tamper
- Cogeneration/Net Metering
- Backup Generators
- Line Extension
- Schedule of Fees & Charges
- Schedule of Deposits
- Residential/Seasonal
- Small Commercial
- Large Commercial/Industrial
- Irrigation
- Rate Schedules
- Residential and Seasonal
- Single Phase
- Three Phase
- Industrial
- Irrigation
- Security Lighting
* Use of the Male or Female gender in these policies shall include the opposite gender.
** Midstate Electric Cooperative, Inc. hereinafter called “Midstate” or “Cooperative”.
1. PURPOSE
To achieve and maintain safe electrical service, and to insure that all members of Midstate receive uniform and equitable treatment.
2. SCOPE
These service policies constitute rules and regulations pursuant to Midstate Electric's Bylaws. They are binding upon all members of Midstate Electric, and are a part of all oral and written contracts for furnishing and receiving electric service. Copies of these service policies shall at all times be available to members of the Cooperative upon request.
3. REVISION
These service policies may be revised, amended, supplemented, or otherwise changed at any time by action of Midstate Electric's Board of Directors. These service policies cancel and supersede all previous rules and regulations or service policies.
4. CONFLICT
In case of any conflict between any provisions of any rate schedule and these service policies, the provision of the rate schedule shall apply.
In case of any conflict between Midstate Electric's Bylaws and these service policies, the provision of the Bylaws shall apply.
5. PRIVACY POLICY
Midstate collects personal information about the member as part of the account set-up process. It includes information the member provides; such as: name, address, Social Security number, telephone numbers and information about the services the member has, such as account balances, etc. The information is used predominately for recordkeeping, capital credits, billing and to process payments.
Only employees or agents who are authorized to have access to member data are those who need it to do their jobs. This data is protected and kept confidential. We maintain physical, electronic, and procedural safeguards that comply with federal and state regulations to protect member data.
Midstate may share the member data described above with other departments and employees. We may share it to serve you or maintain your account, or so that we can tell you about other products or services.
Midstate may share the member data described herein with other companies that perform services for us or on our behalf. This includes firms that provide mailing or marketing services for Midstate, or develop and maintain software for Midstate. We do this only if applicable federal and state laws allow this disclosure. We may disclose it as permitted or required by law, for example, to law enforcement officials in response to subpoenas, or to prevent fraud.
Midstate’s sharing of member information is limited by law and member’s written authorization.
6. APPLICATIONS FOR
(1) MEMBERSHIPS
Each member of Midstate Electric is required to be an active member of the Cooperative. Members are required to pay a non-refundable membership fee (see Schedule of Fees and Charges) and sign an application for membership form. Refer to Midstate’s Bylaws for additional rules and regulations.
Membership Options:
(a) SINGLE MEMBERSHIP
One individual (natural person at least 18 years old)
(b) JOINT MEMBERSHIP
Husband and wife (consists of one man and one woman, or defined by state law currently in effect, both natural persons and both at least 18 years of age. In those cases where the Husband and Wife do not have the same last name, Midstate Electric requires proof of marriage.)
(c) OTHER MEMBERSHIP
Consists of any firm, association, corporation or body politic. Midstate Electric will require this membership type to furnish their TAX I.D. Number.
Each membership is entitled to one and only one vote within the Cooperatives' Bylaws.
Memberships are terminated as outlined in Midstate Electric's Bylaw 2.5 - Termination of Membership. Terminated memberships will be reinstated when the former member establishes an active account with Midstate Electric. Reinstated memberships will not be required to pay the non-refundable membership fee.
(2) SERVICE
Applicants for electric service are required to sign a Midstate Electric's membership application for electric service and supply Midstate Electric with information relating to service requirements, the manner in which power will be utilized, and credit references. A member may be asked to provide positive identification by means of date of birth, Social Security Number, photograph, or other identifying information such as name, sex, height, color of eyes, address, U.S. Passport, certificate of citizenship or naturalization, Immigration and Naturalization Service temporary resident card, employment authorization card, birth certificate or social security card, school, current employment identification or equivalent identification with photograph. Large industrial or commercial contracts may be written on a special form, that shall contain such provisions and stipulations as may be necessary or desirable to protect the interests of both the member and Midstate Electric.
The “Membership Application” is a request for service only and does not, in itself, constitute a contract for service until Midstate Electric actually delivers electric service to the member or as otherwise defined in Midstate Electric's Line Extension Policy. In the absence of a signed membership application, the delivery of service by Midstate Electric, and its acceptance by the member, shall be deemed to constitute an agreement and acceptance of Midstate Electric's rules and regulations.
A member who wishes electric service in their name, should provide notice to Midstate Electric's office five business days in advance of the effective date.
If an existing member requests new residential service and has outstanding residential past due balances, Midstate Electric will require the past due balances be paid before the new service is connected.
(3)REFUSAL OF SERVICE
Midstate reserves the right to refuse to connect or may disconnect electric service for any violation of the service policies or other rules, including, without limitation, failure to pay electric service charges when due, violation of contract provisions, fraud, dangerous or emergency conditions, for theft or illegal diversion of energy, any unauthorized use, or to protect Midstate employees, other members, Midstate property, or the property of others.
All past due amounts on existing accounts must be paid prior to setting up a new account.
7. DEPOSITS
A deposit is required from all new members in order to establish credit for residential, commercial, industrial and irrigation utility service, unless one of the options below has been met. Deposit requirements are outlined in Schedule of Deposits. Service will be terminated if the deposit is not paid, unless payment arrangements have been made for future payment. If member has had prior poor credit history with Midstate, they will be required to pay a deposit. Good credit consists of no late penalties, delinquent notices, disconnects for non-pay, returned payments or insufficient funds checks. Also, all accounts in collections and all final bills must be in good standing or paid. We require the deposit, credit letter or payment arrangement to be completed or paid before we will connect service. If you pay a deposit to start service and later supply us with a letter of credit, we will credit your account with the amount of your deposit, as long as payments on your account have not been late between when service was started and the date the letter of credit was received.
The member's options regarding payment of Deposit are:
(1) Pay the required amount.
(2) A Letter of Credit
A letter of credit from a previous utility showing evidence of the member's prompt payment history may be accepted in lieu of the deposit. Acceptable letters must cover a continuous 12 month period within the last two years for the same type of service. Acceptable letters of credit have no late penalties, delinquent notices, disconnects for non-payment, returned or insufficient funds checks or returned automatic payments, such as electronic funds transfer, accounts in collections and the final bill is paid or account is in good standing. An acceptable letter of credit must be received within 30 days of the connect date in order to waive the deposit.
(3) A co-signer
A co-signer may guarantee payment in lieu of the deposit. The co-signer must be a current Midstate Electric member with a no late payment record for the prior 12 consecutive months for the same type of service. Should the co-signer terminate service with Midstate Electric before the new member establishes a satisfactory payment record, Midstate will charge a deposit.
(4) Deposit Arrangements:
Residential new members and post bankruptcy minimum requirements:
1/3 of deposit plus Membership Charge & Transfer Charge
1/3 of deposit due on first month's bill due date
1/3 of deposit due on second month's bill due date
Other Rates/Revenues classes:
(a)Single phase commercial members can make arrangements with supervisor approval.
(b)Three phase commercial, Industrial and Irrigation members cannot make arrangements on deposits.
(c)New Construction cannot make arrangements and deposits must be paid in full; or in lieu of a deposit an acceptable letter of credit is required before service will be energized.
(d)Previous Midstate accounts sent to collection with an Uncollectible record, either paid or unpaid, a deposit is required. No arrangements or cosigner will be allowed. Exception; if the uncollectible amount was paid during the the first 30 days after the write-off date, arrangements can be made on the deposit.
8. BILLING
Meters shall be read monthly, or, at Midstate Electric's discretion, at other periodic times. Midstate Electric will, as nearly as possible, read meters on the same cycle date - but because of holidays, Saturdays, Sundays and difference in the lengths of months, variations may occur. Midstate Electric reserves the right to modify meter reading schedules as required. If, for any reason, a meter reading cannot be obtained for any particular period, Midstate Electric may estimate the reading and render a bill based on this estimate. Midstate may utilize electronic technology to read meters.
The Cooperative Cycle Bills the first four Tuesdays of the month. Except in those months where a holiday falls on the billing date, in this situation the Cooperative has the option to bill the day before or the day after the holiday. All billings are due 20 days from date of billing. A Late Payment Charge will be imposed on delinquent accounts (see Schedule of Fees and Charges). Accounts become delinquent if payment is not received prior to the next month's billing.
Midstate reserves the right to change a member’s billing date for the purpose of coordinating the meter reading routes and geographic locations. Midstate also reserves the right to change billing dates to improve methods of operation.
At the request of a residential or single phase commercial member, Midstate Electric may establish one or both of the following:
(1)A Budget Payment Plan that permits monthly payments of approximately 1/12th of the annual electric service cost. Under this plan, the member, although receiving a regular monthly bill, pays only the estimated average monthly amount of the previous 12 months of bills.
Residential and Single Phase Commercial accounts qualify for this program, provided they have the same service address for twelve continuous months. Budget accounts will recalculate in October, although accounts with larger balances may require more frequent review. Midstate reserves the right to adjust the monthly payment requirement at any time to compensate for abnormal debit or credit balances. Midstate will notify the member of any changes either by phone, mail or other electronic means.
A member on the budget payment plan may remain on the plan until such time as the member moves from the address where the plan was used, or the member notifies Midstate to terminate their participation in the plan, or the member is delinquent more than two times during the preceding 12 months.
The requirements for a member to set-up the budget payment plan are:
1. Any existing balance paid in full.
2. Must have 12 months of consumption history.
3. Must maintain good credit history.
The plan is meant to be a convenience for those who choose to use it; no one is obligated to participate.
(2) A Preferred Billing Date that allows the member to select or change to a different billing cycle. The member may change their billing date once in a 12-month period. Midstate Electric will establish the terms and conditions under which the preferred billing date option will be extended. The Member must maintain perfect credit history and must sign-up for budget billing. If member becomes delinquent, the account will be reset to original/correct billing cycle for service address. Member will be notified by phone or mail if billing cycle is reset to original billing cycle.
Closing bills are due and payable on presentation. Net credit balance from closed accounts may be transferred to the member's active electric service of like kind, account or if the member does not have an active account a credit balance greater than $5.00 will be refunded. Credit balances less than or equal to $5.00 will be applied to Midstate Electric's Energy Relief Fund, unless otherwise stipulated by the member. All closed accounts with balances remaining unpaid 30 days after the final bill date, will be referred to our collection agency.
(3) Request for Records: Records available are limited to the records maintained per our Records Retention Policy. Members may be required to pay a Service Charge for records on closed accounts (see Schedule of Fees & Charges). Most account information is available on-line at no cost. Cost estimates and completion times will be provided at time of request.
9. PAYMENT OPTIONS
Members may make payments to Midstate by cash, check, money order, credit card, Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) from checking, savings or credit card, on-line bill payment (www.midstateelectric.coop) or any other approved payment method. Payments may be made to us by mail, in our office, outside drop box, approved offsite payment stations, or on-line. Midstate may add or delete any option listed above at Midstate’s discretion. See Termination of Service for information on termination for NSF’s and returned bank items.
10. TERMINATION OF SERVICE
A member who wishes electric service discontinued should provide notice to Midstate Electric's office five business days in advance of the effective date. The outgoing member will be held responsible for service rendered between the time of notification and actual service termination. This does not apply to special contracts or rate schedules containing contractual provisions.
Midstate Electric may refuse to connect, or may disconnect service for violation of any of its rules and regulations; for failure to pay electric service charges when due; for failure to pay deposits; for failure to make or abide by the terms of a payment arrangement; for providing false identification; for unsafe conditions; for violation of rate schedule or contract provisions; for theft or illegal diversion of energy; or for emergencies endangering life or property. Discontinuance of service for any of these causes does not release the member from the obligation to pay for energy received, or charges specified in any existing contract.
Midstate Electric will terminate a member’s electric service for non-payment of electric charges (excluding failed arrangements) only as outlined in the following provisions:
(1) Termination Criteria - Account has a current past due balance and the past due constitutes two consecutive months past due or the third or more months past due during the previous 12 month period.
(2) Initial Notification - Midstate Electric shall provide initial notification of proposed termination on the face of the monthly billing statement. Proposed termination date shall not be less than 15 days from the date of the issuance of the billing statement.
(3) Notice of Termination - Midstate Electric shall give at least 10 days written notice to the member before termination of service. The notice shall contain:
(a) A clear explanation of the reasons for termination.
(b) The amount to be paid to avoid disconnection.
(c) The date of the proposed termination, such date shall not be less than 10 days from the date of the issuance of the notice.
(d) Information on installment payments and budget billing.
(e) An explanation on submitting an Emergency Medical Certificate.
(f) A statement to contact Midstate Electric Cooperative for information on agencies which may be able to provide financial aid.
(4) Emergency Medical Certificate:
(Primarily used for notification during planned outages)
Midstate will not disconnect residential service if the member submits oral or written certification from a licensed physician, nurse practitioner, qualified registered nurse or physician’s assistant stating that disconnection will significantly endanger the physical health of the member or an individual of the member's household.Oral notices must be confirmed in writing and received in our office within 14 days. If account is scheduled for disconnect, the Emergency Medical Certificate must be submitted prior to the scheduled disconnect date. Certificates for conditions that are not chronic must be renewed every 30 days. Midstate may verify the accuracy of an Emergency Medical Certificate. If Midstate believes the member does not qualify, or no longer qualifies for a medical certificate, Midstate will terminate the electric service if an overdue balance exists and written payment arrangements are not made or kept.
A member submitting an Emergency Medical Certificate is not excused from paying for service. Members are required to enter into a payment arrangement with Midstate when they have an overdue balance. At the time of filing an Emergency Medical Certificate a payment arrangement must be made if there is a past due balance.
Termination will be postponed provided the member makes a valid attempt to secure financial assistance or is willing to negotiate a legal plan of payment.Members may request to extend an existing payment arrangement one time, provided they have not already had an extension on that arrangement. A member with a "Failed Payment Arrangement" within the last 12 months will not be allowed to make a written arrangement until a 12 month good pay history is established.
If member fails to enter into a payment arrangement or does not abide by the terms of the existing arrangement or does not return the written Emergency Medical Certificate within the 14 day extension, Midstate may disconnect service without further notification.
Written Emergency Medical Certification must include:
(1) The name of the person to whom the certificate applies and relationship to member;
(2) A complete description of the health conditions;
(3) An explanation how the health of the person will be significantly endangered by the
termination of service;
(4) A statement indicating how long the health condition is expected to last;
(5) A statement specifying the particular type of utility service required (e.g., electricity for respirator); and
(6) The signature and date of the qualified medical professional prescribing medical care.
A back-up power system or plan is advised.
(5) Processing Notice of Termination - The Notice of Termination shall be mailed to the last known address of the member or a third party designated by the member to receive notices or shall be personally served. For purposes of explanation of personally served or personally delivered, this includes hanging a notice on the door. This process shall be deemed complete as of the date of mailing or personal delivery.
(6) Contact Prior to Termination -
(a) At least 48 hours prior to the proposed termination of service, Midstate Electric shall attempt to contact the person in possession of the residence, and the member or his designated representative, in an effort to inform them that termination is imminent, and determine the reason(s) the member has not responded to the Notice of Termination.
(b) When Midstate has an in-person or telephone conversation with a member or an adult at a residence, and the circumstances are such that a reasonable person would conclude the member or the adult at the residence does not understand the possible consequences of disconnection, Midstate will notify the Department of Human Services; and delay the proposed disconnection date for five additional business days.
(c) Procedures used, and efforts made, by Midstate Electric to make personal contact under this section shall be documented. If personal contact cannot be made, the Customer Service Supervisor shall be notified before termination and a notice that service has been terminated shall be left in a conspicuous place at the residence where service was terminated.
(7) Designation of Third Party to Receive Notice-Midstate Electric shall offer its members the option to designate a third party to receive notices set forth above. This option shall be available at the member's request, or if the member appears to have a communication problem. Request must be in writing.
(8) Information Relating to Financial Assistance - Prior to terminating service, Midstate Electric shall make every effort to inform residential members who cannot pay their bills of the names and telephone numbers of appropriate units within the Oregon Department of Human Service and other social service agencies which can help the member determine what federal, state or private aid may be available to that member.
(9) Installment Payments - Past Due Amounts
Midstate Electric may allow a member to arrange installment payments for purposes of payment of past due amounts, as long as the member has not failed a written arrangement in the previous 12 months.
Termination will not take place if, prior to the proposed termination date, the member pays the greater of $50.00 or 25% of the total amount due and enters into a written installment payment plan (that is in addition to the member's current monthly billings) with the utility, designed to bring the account into balance no later than four months from the date of the agreement. Arrangements WILL NOT be accepted the day of termination.
Member/Member’s non-compliance with a signed Payment Agreement shall be cause for termination of electrical service without further notice.
(10) Disconnection –
If a payment is not received before the service disconnect date, your account will be placed on the Non-Pay Disconnect List.
A trip charge will be assessed when Midstate personnel /authorized agents are at member’s location and payment is made (Payment at member’s location or via alternative method).
Irrigation services may be disconnected during the offseason for operational efficiencies. Service will be reconnected at no charge if no past due balance exists.
(11) NSF’s and Returned Bank Items:
There is a Returned Check Charge for any NSF (non-sufficient funds) check, stop payment, closed account, refused automatic bill payment, or any other reason that it is returned to Midstate Electric Cooperative by Midstate’s bank or other financial institution upon which it is drawn. This charge is per item returned, see Schedule of Fees & Charges for charge amount. Member will be placed on cash only, when the member has either had two NSF’s in a twelve month period or paid an NSF to avoid shut-off. A deposit will also be required from the member. If account remains unpaid, it is subject to termination. No payment arrangements will be made on any NSF’s or returned bank items.
(12) Dispute Resolution-
(a) Any member may dispute Midstate Electric's decision to terminate service, or its refusal to restore service, by notifying the Customer Service Supervisor at Midstate Electric, P.O. Box 127, 16755 Finley Butte Rd La Pine, 97739. Notification must be made in person, or in writing.
(b) Pending resolution of the dispute, the member's obligation to pay undisputed amounts continues.
(c) A member who has a dispute pending with Midstate Electric shall be entitled to continued or restored service provided:
(1) Service was not terminated for theft of service or failure to establish credit.
(2) Where termination is based on nonpayment, the member makes adequate arrangements to avoid future loss to the utility, such as pre-paying monthly utility charges or taking advantage of Midstate’s auto payment plan options.
(d) Every reasonable effort shall be made to accommodate the member in these matters, including timely resolution of complaints and disputes.
(13) Restriction on Residential Service Termination -
(a) Physical Disabilities-
Midstate Electric shall not terminate a residential member's service, or refuse to restore service upon request, without the Accounting Manager's approval if Midstate Electric has been advised as outlined in the Emergency Medical Certificate (EMC) section and a certificate is in effect.
If Midstate Electric has postponed termination because of advice from a person specified in the EMC section, and the advice was not confirmed by certification, in writing as required, or a certification has expired, Midstate Electric may proceed to terminate service under the provisions above without giving another Notice of Termination, but must again meet the personal contact requirement of the EMC of this section.
(b) Weekends and Holidays-
Residential service shall not be terminated on, or the day prior to, a weekend or holiday. Midstate may disconnect on a Friday or the day before a state or utility recognized holiday for failed payment arrangements where the member mutually agreed upon the payment due date.
(c) Midstate Electric shall not deny or terminate residential service to a member for failure to pay for a non-residential service, or for violation of rules and regulations in connection with non-residential service.
(14) Requirements for Restoration of Service -
Except as provided in the Dispute Resolution Section during the pendency of appeals, or unless otherwise ordered by the Customer Service Supervisor, if a residential member's service has been properly terminated under the provisions of Subsection (1) to (12) of this Section, Midstate shall not be required to restore service without payment of any overdue amounts, together with any other deposits, guarantees, and re-connection fees authorized under Midstate Electric's service policies. (see Schedule of Fees and Charges and Schedule of Deposits).
11. SERVICE CHARGE
Whenever there is a change of membership at an established service address (metered and/or security lighting), the connection of a disconnected security light or a new service established (metered and/or security lighting) there will be a non-refundable Connect/Reconnect/Transfer Charge (see Schedule of Fees & Charges).
(1) LANDLORD AGREEMENT: The manager or owner of a rental service, who has entered into a written landlord agreement with Midstate Electric requesting metered service to be left on in his name when vacant, will be required to pay the connect charge each time it is put back into the owner/landlord’s name. Landlord is responsible for termination of agreement, termination must be in writing.
To qualify for landlord status, current members must have 12 consecutive months of perfect pay history with Midstate and no security deposit on the account. New members need a letter of credit from a former utility saying they have perfect pay history for 12 consecutive months within the last 24 months. Members requiring a security deposit on their account cannot take advantage of landlord status. Member must maintain perfect pay history or they will be removed from landlord agreement status until they have 12 consecutive months of perfect pay history.
Whenever electric service has been disconnected for non-compliance with service policies, or for non-payment, or for fraudulent use, the service will not be reconnected until the situation requiring such disconnect has been corrected to the satisfaction of Midstate Electric.
If a reconnect is requested after hours or a connect is requested for the same day, After Hours charges will
beapply as shown on the Schedule of Fees & Charges.
12. ADJUSTMENTS
(1) TAX
The amount of any and all taxes (including but limited to Use and/or Franchise taxes) imposed upon revenue, kilowatt hours, properties, or any other form of tax imposed by any governmental authority upon Midstate Electric, may be apportioned by the Board of Directors to the territory in which such tax, or taxes, may be effective; and among the various classes of service furnished therein. Such amounts shall constitute a charge in addition to any amount which may be billed to any member under any rate schedule or special contract.
(2) BILLING ERRORS
If an under or over billing occurs, Midstate Electric will provide written notice to the member detailing the circumstances, period of time and amount of adjustment.
If it can be shown that the error was due to some cause, the date of which can be fixed, the over or under charge shall be computed back to such date. If no date can be fixed, the utility shall refund the overcharge or rebill the undercharge for no more than six month's usage. In no event shall an over or under billing be for more than three years usage. Where a member is required to repay an under billing, the member shall be entitled to enter into a payment agreement that is in addition to current energy charges without regard to whether the member already participates in such an agreement, except in those cases where it has been determined such under billing was due to fraud.
(3) TRANSFER OF BALANCE OWING
Balances owing on terminated services may be transferred to a member's active account of like service, upon member notification.
13. RESALE OF ENERGY
The rate schedules cover the distribution of electrical energy for the sole and exclusive use of the member. Except by agreement with Midstate Electric, no member shall connect his service with that of another person, or in any way resell, rebill, or supply any other person or premises with electric energy through his service.
14. RIGHTS-OF-WAY AND RIGHTS-OF-ACCESS
Midstate Electric shall be granted, at no cost and in writing suitable for recording, all rights-of-way and easements necessary to serve the member, overhead or underground, for the erection, maintenance, repair, replacement, removal, or use of all wires, poles, machinery, fixtures, or equipment needed to supply and deliver electric service to the member. Midstate Electric, through its authorized employees and contractors, shall have access to its equipment at all times for the purpose of reading meters (this includes the removal of all obstacles including pets, that may constitute a hazard), and testing, repairing, or replacing any equipment which is the property of Midstate Electric. If such equipment is so located that locks or security devices must be operated to reach it, Midstate Electric shall be provided appropriate access. This may require the use of a Midstate Electric lock in conjunction with the member's security. Any changes to your equipment or fees and permits are the member’s responsibility. Midstate may cut and trim trees and shrubbery on member’s property to the extent necessary to keep them clear of Cooperative property.
Unrestrained animals present a serious safety threat to Midstate employees and agents. Should a Member's animal inhibit or prohibit Midstate employee’s or contractors access to the premises, or interfere in any way with Midstate employee’s or contractors necessary work, the Member will be notified by mail of the problem and a mutually agreeable permanent solution must be arranged promptly. If a Member does not comply with such a request, Midstate may disconnect service without further notice.
15. DAMAGE TO MIDSTATE ELECTRIC PROPERTY
The member shall take all reasonable and proper precautions to prevent damage to Midstate Electric's property and facilities on the member's premises. In the event that property of Midstate Electric is damaged, Midstate Electric may collect, from the responsible party or member responsible for account service, the cost of repairs or replacement (see Schedule of Fees).
16. DAMAGE TO CONSUMER/MEMBER PROPERTY
It is the goal of Midstate to provide reliable energy possible; however Midstate is not financially responsible for damage sustained to personal property as a result of power voltage fluctuations or power disruptions for which we were not negligent for the cause. We encourage you to obtain home owners or renters insurance that will protect your property in the event of power voltage fluctuations or power disruptions.
17. SECURITY LIGHTS
All Security Lights will be on in the field and active in the billing system. Disconnecting and/or reconnecting security lights may take longer than five (5) days to be completed. Regular service work and outages take priority over security lights.
Requests to disconnect a security light:
Property owners have the following options:
·Place light on a security light only account that will be billed separate if house service is off and light will be on:
oSelling house/property. Cannot leave light off until house sells.
oSeasonal vacation, i.e. “snowbirds”.
·Retire the light.Request must be in writing.
oA renter cannot request a light be retired. The property owner needs to contact Midstate to discuss placing the light on a separate light only account or retiring the light.
·Exception (moths only)
oTemporary Disconnect due to Moths. Monthly charges will continue, Disconnect and Reconnect charges will apply. Light will be reconnected after 90 days.
18. ATTACHMENTS TO MIDSTATE ELECTRIC PROPERTY
Midstate Electric, does not allow any member equipment or material to be attached to its property, except where said equipment and/or material is required to provide electrical service and said equipment and/or material has been authorized by Midstate Electric.
19. ADDITIONAL LOAD
If the member desires to increase his power requirements materially, he shall notify Midstate Electric sufficiently in advance so that Midstate Electric may, if economically feasible, provide the facilities required to serve the increased load. If the member fails to notify Midstate Electric, and as a result Midstate Electric's equipment is damaged, the member may be liable for the cost of such damage.
20. HIGHLY FLUCTUATING LOAD
For highly fluctuating and intermittent loads which seriously affect voltage, such as large motors, saw rigs, x-ray machines, etc., Midstate Electric may require a contract for service, which will take into consideration such additional equipment as deemed necessary to maintain satisfactory service to other members. The member may be required, however, to install at his own expense, regulative equipment to control such fluctuation.
21. INTERRUPTIONS OF SERVICE
Midstate Electric will attempt to provide satisfactory and uninterrupted electric service; but cannot and will not guarantee such service, and shall not be liable for injury, loss, or damage resulting from any failure or curtailment of electric service; nor shall failure or curtailment constitute a breach of contract. Whenever necessary, for the purpose of making repairs or improvements to its system, Midstate Electric shall have the right to temporarily suspend the delivery of electric energy; but in such cases, Midstate Electric will give reasonable notice, if circumstances permit, and attempt to schedule its activities to the member's convenience.
22. NOTICE OF TROUBLE
Midstate Electric will endeavor to give the best possible service to its members at all times. The member can materially assist Midstate Electric in fulfilling its purpose by promptly notifying Midstate Electric of any defects, trouble, or accident affecting the supply of electricity, or in the event service is unsatisfactory for any reason.
23. MEMBER'S POWER OUTAGE
If the member's service fails, member shall endeavor to determine if there are blown fuses, a tripped breaker, or if equipment is at fault before calling Midstate Electric. If a serviceman is sent out at the member's request, and it is determined that the member's equipment is at fault, a fee may be charged (see Schedule of Fees & Charges)
24. RECONNECT-SAME MEMBER SAME SERVICE ADDRESS
Member will be billed any applicable minimum charges (Facility Charges) for the period of time service was not energized. Not to exceed twelve (12) months.
25. RADIO AND TV RECEPTION INTERFERENCE
Midstate Electric will investigate reports of interference to radio and television reception, and will take action to correct the condition causing the interference, provided the interference is found to be caused by Midstate Electric's facilities. However, Midstate electric will not repair or replace any defective part of any radio or television, nor will it perform repair or replacement services to such appliances.
26. METERS
(1) METER TESTING
Midstate Electric will test and inspect its meters to ensure a high standard of accuracy. Midstate Electric will, upon reasonable request, test any member's meter. If the meter is found, upon test, to deviate (+ or -)more than 2% under normal conditions of the member's electric load, the member's billing will be adjusted as outlined in Section 10 Subsection (2).
Each member is allowed one no charge office meter test per account every three years or as deemed necessary by Midstate. Each additional office test requested by the member will require a charge (see Schedule of Fees & Charges), except in those cases where the meter fails to pass the above stated criteria.
(2) METER TAMPER
The meter is the property of Midstate Electric and shall not be jumped, tampered with, moved, disconnected, or de-energized, except by authorized Midstate Electric employees and/or authorized Midstate Electric contractors. In the event that Midstate Electric's meter is tampered, Midstate Electric will collect, from the responsible party or member responsible for account service, the cost of repairs or replacement, a tamper fee (see Schedule of Fees & Charges) and up-to-date deposit (see Schedule of Deposits), the full balance owing, and full amount owed on account up to and including usage (actual or estimated) while tamper was in place.
27. COGENERATION/NET METERING
It is the policy of Midstate Electric to comply with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations in connection with proposals that Midstate Electric purchase power from cogeneration and small power production facilities.
Reference Midstate Electric Board Policy #100, for detailed information regarding this policy.
28. BACKUP GENERATORS
All backup generators must be installed in accordance with the NEC (National Electric Code) and have a double-throw safety switch installed. Failure to meet this requirement could result in situations that would result in injury, death or damage to the generator. Failure to keep the backup generator in compliance with the NEC will result in Midstate’s disconnecting the electric service without further notice. Reconnection will only be done after it is confirmed that the backup generator is installed in compliance with the NEC.
29. LINE EXTENSION
In general, Midstate Electric will extend its lines to all permanent loads within Midstate Electric's established service area as outline in Midstate Electric's Line Extension Policy.
Reference Midstate Electric Board Policy #105, for detailed information regarding this policy.
30. SCHEDULE OF FEES & CHARGES
(all fees & charges are non-refundable)
Membership Fee-$ 5.00
Connect/Reconnect/Transfer Charge -
- Service Hours $ 35.00
- Service After Hours $ 100.00
- Weekends, Holidays or Same Day Connect$ 100.00
Late Payment Charge- $5 or 1½% of balance owing whichever is greater if not paid before the next billing.
Disconnect/Collection/Trip Charge-$ 25.00
Returned Check Charge -$ 25.00
Records Retrieval Charge –Per closed account$ 25.00
(records not available on-line)
Service Call - Member ProblemsActual Cost
Service Call - Damage to Midstate Electric PropertyActual Cost
Meter Tamper Fee - 1st Tamper $ 250.00
2nd Tamper $ 500.00
3rd Tamper $1,000.00
Meter Test Fee$ 25.00
31. SCHEDULE OF DEPOSITS
Since electric service is used prior to meter-reading and billing for such service, Midstate Electric may require prior to connection a deposit as a guarantee. Notwithstanding previous payment history, members filing for or having filed bankruptcy will be charged a deposit. Members disconnected for non-payment or where the member's payment record shows five past dues in the previous 12 months will be charged an up-to-date deposit. Upon termination of service, deposits will be credited to the account. Terminated accounts with balance owing will be processed as outlined in Section 10 Sub-Section(3). Terminated accounts with a credit balance will be processed as outlined in Section 7. Deposits may also be refunded or credited to the account at any time at the discretion of Midstate Electric. Normal refunding or crediting occurs after the member has established 12 months of on-time payments with no past dues. Interest will be paid on deposits, equal to the rate paid on the United States National Bank's Passbook Savings Account at the end of the previous year. If the deposit is held beyond one year, accrued interest will be paid by a credit to the member's account. If held less than one year, interest will be prorated.
(1) RESIDENTIAL
The deposit for this service class will be a two month average bill based on the system wide average for this class of service. This amount will be recomputed annually and adjusted each January 1st as necessary.
In those situations where an up-to-date deposit is required the deposit will be the greater of this revenue class's system wide two month average or at least a two month average bill based on the service location's previous historical usage, not to exceed 12 month's prior usage.
(2) SINGLE PHASE COMMERCIAL
The deposit for this service class will be a two month average bill based on the system wide average for this class of service. This amount will be recomputed annually and adjusted each January 1st as necessary.
In those situations where an up-to-date deposit is required the deposit will be the greater of this revenue class's system wide two month average or at least a two month average bill based on the service location's previous historical usage, not to exceed 12 month's prior usage.
(3) THREE PHASE COMMERCIAL/INDUSTRIAL
The deposit for this service class will be a two month average bill based on the service location's previous twelve month's historical usage.
The deposit for a new service and any service requiring an up-to-date deposit, where the service location lacks 12 months of historical usage, will be two times Midstate’s engineer's estimated average monthly usage for the service.
(4) IRRIGATION
The deposit for this service class will be a two month average bill based on the service location's historical usage during the previous irrigation season.
The deposit for a new service and any service requiring an up-to-date deposit, or where the service location lacks full historical usage for the previous irrigation season, will be two times Midstate Electric's estimated average monthly usage for the service using the seasonal rate at a 75% load factor.
32. RATE SCHEDULES
(1) Residential & Seasonal
See Exhibit "A" for details.
(2) Single Phase Commercial
See Exhibit "B" for details.
(3) Three Phase Commercial
See Exhibit "C" for details.
(4) Industrial
See Exhibit "D" for details.
(5) Irrigation
See Exhibit "E" for details.
6) Security Lighting
See Exhibit "F" for details.
Originally Approved 10/24/1994
Re-Approved 6/26/1995
Signature: Gordon DeArmond
Board President
Date:April 28, 2008
Midstate Electric Cooperative PO Box 127 La Pine, OR 97739
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