Development Services

OUC Services

OUC can meet your business’s specific needs by providing utility and other services. Refer to the Development Services Guide to determine which services are available in your area.

About Contribution in Aid of Construction (CIAC) Charges

These charges are designed to recover the cost differential between underground and overhead distribution systems. OUC will implement a new Residential Electric CIAC charge for new developments starting January 1, 2027. This approach will replace the existing refundable Per Lot Fee with a new non-refundable charge, eliminating the associated refund process for developers and builders.

To determine whether a project already underway follows the existing process with refundable Per Lot Fee or new non-refundable Residential CIAC process, review the guidelines below. The applicable process will depend on when the cost letter is issued and whether payment is received within the required 30-day period.

If you have current or upcoming residential development projects, particularly those that may be affected by the January 1 transition, contact OUC Development Services with your project-specific questions at [email protected].

Current Process with Refundable Per Lot Fee: Valid Until December 31, 2026

The current process includes a non-refundable CIAC charge and refundable per lot fee.

Refundable

A $650 per lot fee must be paid before OUC orders materials and begins installation of electric equipment (e.g., transformers, primary cables and meters). This portion of the CIAC fee is refundable if the project has permanent active meters on at least 75% of completed lots within three years of installation.

Non-Refundable

CIAC charges are applied to all new commercial/multifamily facilities that will be placed underground and vary for service areas.

• The feeder charge will be $30/kVA for offsite customer-installed duct bank.
• The feeder charge will be $113/kVA for offsite OUC-installed duct bank.

In addition, the customer will pay 39% of OUC’s on-site cost for primary cable, splices, transformers, and any other equipment or materials necessary to provide electric service.

Please review OUC’s Electric Line Extension Policy for more information.

What is this Per Lot Fee for?

The per lot fee helps cover the upfront costs of electric infrastructure installations in new residential developments.

When is the per lot fee refundable?

The fee is refundable if the project has permanent active meters on at least 75% of the completed lots within three years. It’s the customer’s responsibility to contact OUC to request a CIAC payment refund.

In the event the project is cancelled prior to construction, OUC will refund the payment less any unrecoverable costs incurred by OUC.

What’s the difference between the Per Lot Fee and the regular CIAC?

The per lot fee is refundable if certain conditions are met. The regular CIAC is non-refundable and covers the costs for requested underground distribution facilities or extended distribution, which is deemed not beneficial to the overall system.

When does the three-year period start?

Once OUC completes electric equipment installation, you will receive notification, via email or a phone call, that the three-year period has started.

New Process with New Non-Refundable CIAC Charge: Starting January 1, 2027

Beginning January 1, 2027, the new non-refundable Residential Electric CIAC charge will replace the existing refundable Per Lot Fee for projects subject to the new process. The new charge is necessary due to increased costs associated with the electric infrastructure, particularly underground equipment, required to serve new residential developments

The amount will be determined by OUC’s Engineering Department after design is complete and will be based on the size of the project, number of lots and existing electric infrastructure serving the area. The final amount will be provided as part of the project cost process, and payment must be received before construction is scheduled.

General FAQs

Frequently asked questions that apply to the current and new CIAC process.

What type of payment is acceptable?

Check, ACH, wire transfer and surety bond.

How does a customer apply for a surety bond?

A list of eligible surety bond agencies will be provided. Once OUC receives a completed surety bond application from the customer or surety bond provider, the account will be updated to reflect that payment has been satisfied and project materials will be ordered.

Do I have to pay the full amount?

Upfront payment is required for the number of residential lots within a development phase or for the entire project.

Are non-profit organizations exempt?

No, all customers are required to pay this fee.

Can the project be constructed in phases?

Yes, an engineer will work with you on your construction plan and the costs associated with each phase.

Development FAQs

Does OUC require an approved, signed and sealed set of plans?

Yes, OUC does require the final plans that we estimate to be signed and sealed. We also require signed and sealed copies of permit drawings that are being submitted to the agencies.

How can I find out whether or not OUC can provide utility service to any given unserviced property?

To find out whether or not OUC can provide the service you need, simply complete the Letter of Availability form.