(a) When the determination of questions in controversy in the proceedings is likely to retard the progress of work on or the business of the electric utility, the court or judge in vacation shall designate an amount of money to be deposited by the electric utility, subject to the order of the court, and for the purpose of making compensation when the amount thereof has been assessed, as provided in § 18-15-507, and the judge shall designate the place of deposit.
(b) Whenever the deposit has been made in compliance with the order of the court or judge, it shall be lawful for the electric utility to enter upon the land and proceed with its work, through and over the lands in controversy, prior to the assessment and payment of damages for the use and right to be determined as provided in this section, §§ 18-15-501 — 18-15-507, and § 18-15-509.