1. (1) Terms used in this chapter will have the meanings given to them in the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, in the provisions governing the Commission as codified in Title 65 Tennessee Code Annotated, and in Rule 1220-01-01-.01 of these rules.

2. (2) In addition, for this chapter, the following terms will have the following meanings:

   1. (a) “Appearance” means any act during a contested case by which a person, either in person or by counsel, recognizes and submits to the jurisdiction of the Commission for all purposes except where it is expressly stated to be limited to a particular purpose, such as challenging the jurisdiction of the Commission.

   2. (b) “Party” means any person having a right, under the provisions of the laws applicable to the Commission, to appear and be heard in a contested case and includes:

      1. 1. Persons who initiate a contested case by the filing of an initial petition;
      2. 2. Persons against whom relief is sought or against whom action by the Commission is directed; and
      3. 3. Persons who are given leave by the Commission to intervene in a contested case under applicable law and these rules.
   3. (c) “Initial Petition” means any filing with the Commission through which a person seeks to initiate action by the Commission and that requires a contested case hearing, however captioned, including applications and complaints.
   4. (d) “Petitioner” means a person filing or joining with others in filing an initial petition.
   5. (e) “Respondent” means a person against whom relief is sought or against whom action by the Commission is directed.

Authority: T.C.A. § 65-2-102. Administrative History: Original rule filed June 30, 2000; effective September 13, 2000. Administrative changes made to this chapter on April 27, 2018 pursuant to Public Chapter 94 of 2017; “Tennessee Regulatory Authority” references were changed to “Tennessee Public Utility Commission,” “Authority” references were changed to “Commission,” “Authority Director” references were changed to “Commissioner,” and “Chief” references were changed to “Director.” Amendments filed August 11, 2025; effective November 9, 2025.