37-13-129. Conversion costs.

(a) In determining the conversion costs included in the costs and feasibility report, the public utility shall be entitled to amounts sufficient to repay the following, as computed and reflected by the uniform system of accounts approved by the Wyoming public service commission, federal power commission or federal communications commission, or in the event the public utility is not subject to regulation by any of the above governmental agencies, by the public utility's system of accounts then in use and in accordance with standard accounting procedures of the public utility:

(i) The recorded original costs less depreciation taken as of the date of the assessment resolution of the existing overhead electric and communication facilities to be removed;

(ii) The estimated costs of removing the overhead electric and communication facilities, less the salvage value of the facilities removed;

(iii) If the estimated cost of constructing underground facilities exceeds the recorded original cost of constructing aerial facilities, then the cost difference between the two; and

(iv) The cost of obtaining new easements, including all reasonable acquisition costs, when technical considerations make it reasonably necessary to utilize easements for the underground facilities different from those used for the aboveground facilities, or where the preexisting easements are insufficient for underground facilities.

(b) If provision for payment of all or a portion of conversion cost by the affected public utility are included in tariffs, rules or regulations filed with or promulgated by the Wyoming public service commission, such conversion costs shall be the costs included in the costs and feasibility report and the rates and conditions of such tariff, rule or regulation shall also be applicable and binding on customers in the district.