Indianapolis, IN – Indiana Gov. Mike Braun is calling for an investigation into NIPSCO’s preparation and response to widespread power outages in Northwest Indiana, with about 10,000 customers still without electricity nearly two weeks after severe weather struck the region.
According to the governor’s office, Braun directed the Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor on Monday to file a complaint and petition the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission to launch an investigation into NIPSCO.
The requested investigation follows severe weather that began Aug. 11 and caused widespread, prolonged outages across Northwest Indiana.
Braun wants regulators to examine NIPSCO’s vegetation management and right-of-way maintenance, including whether trees and vegetation were adequately cleared to protect utility infrastructure.
The investigation would also examine whether money approved by state regulators for infrastructure and reliability improvements was used for its intended purposes.
Braun criticized NIPSCO management’s response, saying Hoosiers pay the utility with the expectation that it will maintain its system, prepare for severe weather and restore service as quickly as possible following disasters.
The governor said crews working on the ground for both state agencies and utilities have done an “extraordinary job,” while directing his criticism toward NIPSCO management.
State agencies have also been directed to assist restoration efforts by clearing roads, alleys and storm debris to provide utility crews access to damaged areas.
The Office of Utility Consumer Counselor represents Indiana utility customers in proceedings before the IURC. The commission regulates investor-owned utilities and oversees utility rates, charges and service.
The governor’s announcement requests an investigation. It does not establish that NIPSCO violated state regulations or misused ratepayer funds.
