Access – Central Electric Cooperative

What happens if CEC can’t access my property?

If CEC personnel or contractors cannot access equipment due to a locked gate or fence or are verbally denied access, these circumstances require CEC to issue a notification reiterating right to access our equipment.

If the member does not contact CEC to follow up to provide access within 30 days for the first notification, a second written notification will be issued. Should the member not respond within 30 days of this second notification, a $50 field service charge will appear monthly on the members bill until CEC has been contacted, and the access issue has been resolved.

*Per CEC's Customer Service Policy, CEC shall have access to members properties to inspect, maintain or repair its equipment in compliance with the National Electric Safety Code and Oregon Public Utility Commission's safety and reliability requirements.

Why do I need to share my gate code?

Having the gate code before a visit or in an emergency outage ensures efficient use of time.

If you keep your gate locked at all times, CEC can securely note the code on your account, allowing CEC personnel to access this information on-site. Some systems allow you to set up additional codes for utilities and approved visitors. CEC only uses the code to gain access to its equipment.

I have a powered gate, with no keypad. How do I give CEC access? Can CEC call at the gate?

Unfortunately, CEC is not able to call when the inspector is at the gate for access.

To provide access, members can do any of the following: keep the gate open during the inspection time frame, give permission for CEC to pull the pin, install a lock box with garage door opener inside or install a garage door opener keypad.

I have a chained, locked gate. Do I have to give you a key?

No, you do not. However, CEC recommends using a multiple padlock locking device to enable access. CEC can provide and install its lock at no cost to you. To learn more, call a customer service representative at 541-548-2144.

Members can also complete the form below. Once the form is complete, a representative will be in touch for additional information and to schedule a time for the installation.

CEC Lock Request Form

Current Member(Required)

Yes

No

Account #

CIN

Name(Required)

First Last

Phone Number(Required)

Email

Authorization to use Email(Required)

Yes

No

Service Address(Required)

Street Address City ZIP / Postal Code

Placement of Current Lock(Required)

Chain

Latch

Other

Electronic Signature(Required)

I certify the above information is true and correct and I am the person submitting this form.

Type Full Name(Required)

CEC is unable to assist any non-member with lock install requests. Please reach out to a customer service representative at 541-548-2144 to discuss any inquiries further.

Why does CEC need to have access to my property?

Emergencies. In the event of a fire, crews must have access to shut off the power before firefighters can begin their work. Every second counts.

Maintenance. Central Electric routinely checks and maintains its infrastructure to ensure equipment hasn't been damaged and is in good working order.

Outages. Inaccessible equipment can cause prolonged outages for you and your neighbors.

Properly maintaining the safety and reliability of its electric system infrastructure requires periodic visual inspections. CEC's meters are typically on members' properties, requiring access.