Upon the commencement of condemnation proceedings, the utility seeking to acquire property, unless otherwise provided by law, may file a petition asking that the necessity of the taking be determined. After the petition is filed, the proceedings shall be the same as in the case of a petition by the landowner.

PL 1987, c. 141, §A6 (NEW). PL 1987, c. 490, §B17 (RPR).