Sec. 0.5. (a) To encourage the consolidation of utility companies under this chapter, the commission shall consider and authorize mechanisms:
(1) outside of a general rate case; and
(2) in addition to the inclusion of a cost differential in a utility company's rate base under section 5 of this chapter;
to allow utility companies to integrate into their systems, invest in, and earn on acquired utility assets.
(b) The commission shall authorize a mechanism under subsection (a) if the commission finds that the proposed mechanism is just and reasonable and in the public interest.
(c) The commission may adopt rules under IC 4-22-2 to implement this section.