(A) A natural gas company may request approval of an alternative rate plan by filing an application under section 4909.18 of the Revised Code, regardless of whether the application is for an increase in rates. After investigation, which may include a hearing at the discretion of the public utilities commission, the commission shall authorize the applicant to implement an alternative rate plan if the natural gas company has made a showing and the commission finds that all of the following conditions are met:
(1) The natural gas company is in compliance with section 4905.35 of the Revised Code and is in substantial compliance with the policy of this state specified in section 4929.02 of the Revised Code.
(2) The natural gas company is expected to continue to be in substantial compliance with the policy of this state specified in section 4929.02 of the Revised Code after implementation of the alternative rate plan.
(3) The alternative rate plan is just and reasonable.
(B) The applicant shall have the burden of proof under this section.