Iowa Administrative Code Agency 199 - Utilities Commission
Overview: What is Agency 199 - Utilities Board?
Agency 199 sets forth the administrative rules for the Iowa Utilities Board (IUB), which is responsible for regulating utilities that provide essential services such as:
Electricity
Natural gas
Water
Telecommunications
The Board’s role is to ensure that utility services are safe, reliable, and reasonably priced for consumers, while also balancing the interests of utility companies.
Key Functions and Areas Covered Under Agency 199
1. Rate Regulation
The Utilities Board reviews and approves rates charged by utility companies to ensure they are just and reasonable.
Utility companies must file rate change requests with the Board.
The Board holds hearings, evaluates evidence (costs, investments, market conditions), and may approve, modify, or reject proposed rates.
2. Service Quality and Safety
Agency 199 establishes requirements for utilities to maintain adequate service quality and comply with safety standards.
The Board monitors utilities to ensure reliable delivery of services (e.g., uninterrupted electric or gas supply).
Utilities must report service interruptions, accidents, or emergencies to the Board.
3. Utility Operations and Reporting
Utilities regulated under Agency 199 must submit annual reports and other required filings, including financial data, customer service metrics, and operational statistics.
The Board uses this data to oversee utility performance and financial health.
4. Franchise and Certificates
Utilities may be required to obtain certificates of public convenience and necessity before constructing or expanding facilities (like pipelines or electric lines).
The Board reviews applications for such certificates to ensure public benefit and minimal impact on the environment and property owners.
5. Complaint Handling
Agency 199 establishes processes for consumers to file complaints about utility services or billing.
The Board investigates complaints and may order corrective actions if the utility is found at fault.
6. Energy Efficiency and Conservation
The rules include provisions encouraging utilities to promote energy efficiency programs and conservation measures for customers.
Utilities may be required to submit plans and reports on their conservation efforts.
7. Telecommunications Regulation
Agency 199 covers aspects of regulating telecommunications providers, including service standards and competitive practices.
It ensures consumers have access to necessary telephone and data services.
Procedures Under Agency 199
Filing Requests: Utilities must follow specific procedures when requesting rate changes, service modifications, or new certificates.
Public Participation: Hearings and comment periods allow public input before decisions are made.
Investigations: The Board can initiate investigations into utility practices or incidents.
Enforcement: The Board can impose fines, sanctions, or require corrective actions if utilities violate rules.
Structure and Authority
The Iowa Utilities Board is composed of members appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Senate.
The Board operates independently but must act in accordance with the rules set out in Agency 199.
It has the authority to issue orders, hold hearings, and make binding decisions related to utilities.
Summary of Core Principles in Agency 199
| Principle | Description |
|---|---|
| Consumer Protection | Ensures rates and services are fair and reasonable for consumers. |
| Utility Oversight | Continuous monitoring of utility operations for safety and reliability. |
| Transparency | Requires public disclosure of utility data and open hearings. |
| Accountability | Utilities held accountable for service and billing complaints. |
| Environmental Considerations | Reviews impact of utility infrastructure projects on the environment. |
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