Idle Service Status
An idle service refers to an electric service that has been disconnected at the member's request but remains physically intact (e.g., wires, poles, meters, etc.) and is not removed. Although the service is considered "inactive," it still requires ongoing maintenance, inspection, and incurs costs such as taxes and regulatory fees that the cooperative continues to bear.
Charges and Billing
To retain the cooperative's facilities in readiness for future service, an idle service charge will apply. This charge is 75% of the standard facility charge or the KVA minimum, whichever is higher. The member will continue to be billed at this rate until they request reconnection of the service.
The idle service charge will be applied monthly, and the member must pay the charge within 30 days of the notice. As long as the idle service charge is paid, the cooperative's facilities will remain in place. If payment is not made, the cooperative may remove the facilities when deemed economical to do so.
Reconnection
If a member requests reconnection of service, they will be required to pay the outstanding idle service charges in full, along with any applicable reconnection fees. Additionally, any services disconnected for 12 months or longer must pass inspection by the State of Iowa, or another authorized regulatory authority, before reconnection can occur. If the ownership of the premises has changed, the rebuilding charges will not apply.
Rebuilding
If a member-consumer or owner applies for service restoration within 12 months after the facilities have been removed, they will be required to pay:
- The actual removal cost
- The estimated installation cost for the necessary facilities
- Any back charges for idle service.
If ownership of the premises has changed, these charges will not apply.
If the service has been disconnected for more than 12 months, the member will only need to pay for the installation of the necessary facilities.