Electric distribution cooperatives are primarily self-governing utility companies, but the ORS and PSC do have oversight for some areas of company operations. This oversight is to make sure that the companies are following certain laws.

Act 56

The General Assembly passed Act 56 in 2019, giving the ORS the ability to inspect, audit, and examine the 22 electric cooperatives to make sure they are following certain laws. Act 56 also allows the ORS to investigate consumer complaints against electric cooperatives related to disconnection for not paying a bill. The ORS can inspect, audit, and examine an association of electric cooperatives for compliance with certain laws and an association’s bylaws.

After an inspection, audit, or examination, the ORS must send its findings to the management and board of the electric cooperative or association and try to resolve any compliance issues. The PSC has the authority and jurisdiction to resolve any disputes resulting from an inspection, audit, or examination.