by General Manager Steve Stroshane
The saying goes, “There are two seasons, winter and construction season!" (Three if you count hunting season.) Well, construction season is ramping up again. Our linemen start the co-op's construction work plan just after the frost is out.
This year, we will invest $5.9 million in the electric system, with a focus on upgrades to ensure reliable power during summer and winter peaks. We’re seeing a lot of member construction projects, too, including new homes and garages, remodels and renovations. In 2021, we installed 350 new electric services, and we anticipate similar numbers in 2022.
If you are building this summer and need electricity installed or upgraded, we encourage you and your electrician to work closely with us to meet your needs for a timely installation. We know that building can be stressful. We are here to assist you with electric service for your lights and appliances, AC and heat, power tools, electronics, computers and all the things that power your life.
If you’re ready get started or curious about how electricity is installed, we’ve developed this simple, 10-step checklist to help you through the process:
STEP 1: Complete and sign the application form for new construction. You’ll find this form on our website, polkburnett.com, where you can complete and submit it online. Or if you prefer, paper forms are available at Polk-Burnett offices in Centuria or Siren. We'd also be happy to send them to you by regular mail or email.
STEP 2: Complete and submit the right-of-way easement form, with the legal description and parcel ID number of your property. Your signature must be notarized.
STEP 3: If you’d like a security light or propane service, you’ll also find these forms on our website. Or give us a call. All paperwork is available at co-op offices in Centuria or Siren, or can be mailed or emailed upon request.
STEP 4: Once all your forms have been completed and submitted, an engineering technician will contact you or your contractor to review your project. White staking flags then will be placed to designate the route for the new power lines to your building.
STEP 5: Once your electric service lines are marked, you’ll need to pay Polk-Burnett’s line extension fee. The fee is based on the length and route to extend power. Just like you have seen in your own cost increases in groceries and other necessities, our material prices are impacted by current supply chain issues. Compared to 2021, underground cable prices are up 30%, transformer prices 85% and smaller material 10%. As a result, the cost to install new services will increase in 2022.
STEP 6: Next, you’ll want to work with your contractor or electrician to wire your meter socket according to the electric code and co-op specifications.
STEP 7: An electrical inspection certificate is required for all new electric services. This should be signed by your local building inspector.
STEP 8: Make sure the grade and landscaping of your property is ready to go, and the path is clear for Polk-Burnett to bring the electric service into your property. You’ll want to locate the septic system and any private underground facilities on your property. Examples include an electrical line to your detached garage or yard light, an underground sprinkler system or security system, or walkway lights connected by underground cables. Keep in mind that Diggers Hotline does NOT locate private facilities. To have private facilities marked, please contact a local electrician.
STEP 9: Once your checklist is complete and all your paperwork and fees are turned in, Polk-Burnett will contact Diggers Hotline to locate public utilities on your property. Marker flags will appear on your property.
STEP 10: Your project will now be scheduled, and our crew will arrive to install your new electric service.
Don't forget to consider these programs for co-op members:
2. Lighting and appliance rebate
3. Electric water heater incentive
4. Electric heat pump-HVAC rebate
5. SmartHub online account portal
6. Auto pay and prepay bill options
We're here to help you find the most reliable and energy efficient way to power or heat your home.
It all starts with a phone call
We look forward to assisting you with electric service for your new home, remodel or existing home. Call us at 800-421-0283, ext. 308 or 365, and look for our new construction checklist and video online.
