Frequently Asked Questions
Where does your electric dollar go?
Knowing the answer to this question will help you understand why your electric bill is the size that it is. Most consumers do not know or realize what they receive for the money they spend on electricity each month. Too often, when we receive our bill, we only see the bottom line (the dollars) and not what we are paying for.
What money risk do I run by joining McLean Electric Cooperative?
None, you automatically become a member. There is no money involved. You are not personally liable for loan repayment or for other debts the Cooperative may incur.
Am I Required to pay a deposit?
Under special circumstances, your Cooperative may require a deposit in advance as a guarantee of payment of bills for electric service. Upon termination of service and payment of account in full, the consumer’s deposit will be refunded.
Must I furnish an easement?
Each member is asked to sign a easement giving your Cooperative the right to construct the necessary facilities required for the purpose of delivering electric service to the consumer and to serve additional members.
What are the rights of McLean Electric Cooperative, Inc. to members premises?
The Cooperative shall have the right, through its employees, to enter upon the premises of the member at all reasonable times for the purpose of reading, inspecting, repairing or removing the metering devices and wiring of the Cooperative. The member shall not permit access to such devices to other than authorized representatives of the Cooperative. The member shall obtain and grant all necessary permission to enable the Cooperative to install the service and carry out its contracts.
Am I responsible for the Cooperative's property?
All meters, service connections, and other equipment furnished by the Cooperative, shall be, and remain, the property of the Cooperative. The member shall provide a space for and exercise proper care to protect the property of the Cooperative on its premises; and in the event of loss or damage to the Cooperative’s property arising from neglect of member to care for same, the cost of the necessary repairs or replacement may be billed to the member.
If for some reason I feel the service is unsatisfactory, what can I do?
The member should notify the Cooperative immediately if the service is unsatisfactory for any reason, or if there are any defects, trouble or accidents affecting the supply of electricity. Such notices, if oral, should be confirmed in writing.
Must I notify the Cooperative if I move?
Whenever a change of occupancy or of legal responsibility takes place on any premises being served by the Cooperative, notice of such change must be given at the office of the Cooperative within a reasonable time prior to the date of such change, or the outgoing member will beheld responsible for all service supplied on the premise until such notice has been received by the Cooperative.
Should I inform the Cooperative when I add a new load?
The member should inform the Cooperative of any unusual load in advance of installation. This will enable the Cooperative to upgrade facilities when necessary for the continuance of dependable, uninterrupted service.
The North Dakota State Legislature passed a law in 1977, which is entitled "The Proximity Law." This law limits activity close to a power line in that it indicates that nothing shall be built under the power line and that there should be no activity within 10 feet on either side of the power line.
We urge our members to keep this law in mind if you are planning future construction or making changes in your yard. If it appears that your activity area will require you to be within close proximity of the power line, please contact us so that we can meet with you to review the matter.
If any new road construction or approaches are being planned where there is a possibility that the clearance could be marginal or inadequate, we ask that you contact our office so that necessary action can be taken to correct it. Top priority is always given to situations where the safety and well being of our members is concerned.
Is the Cooperative liable for outages?
The Cooperative will use reasonable diligence to provide a regular and uninterrupted supply of current at normal voltage; but in case the supply of current should be interrupted or disturbed for any case, including weather related storms or animal interference, the Cooperative shall not be liable for personal injuries or property damages resulting there from, or will such failure constitute breach of agreement for service.
Does McLean Electric make wiring inspections?
The Cooperative shall have the right, but shall not be obligated to inspect any installation before electricity is delivered, or at any time later, and reserves the right to reject service to any wiring or appliances not in accord with the Cooperative’s standards, but such inspection or failure to inspect or reject shall not render the Cooperative liable or responsible for any loss or damage resulting from defects in the installation, wiring or appliances, or from violations of the Cooperative’s rules, or from accidents which may occur upon the member’s premises.
Energy conservation today is of very high priority, and each of us can contribute greatly by using this great source of power wisely and safely. This calls for the use of wiring which is of sufficient size and insulation and which is installed properly to every utilization point.
Not only does this conserve energy, but is also assures us that our welfare is being protected so we may continue to serve our community and nation.
Exercise responsible electric accident control today by having an electrician inspect the premises of your home and business for energy-wasting conditions, which might eventually become threats for your lifeline.
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