(a)
(1) The commission, whenever it may be necessary in the performance of its duties, may investigate and examine the condition and operation of public utilities or any particular utility.
(2) In conducting such investigations, the commission may proceed either with or without a hearing as it may deem best, but it shall make no order without affording a hearing to the affected parties.
(b) The commissioners and the officers and employees of the commission, during all reasonable hours, may from time to time enter upon any premises occupied by any public utility or upon or in which any of the utility's property is located for the purpose of making any investigation, examination, or test, or for exercising any power under this act. The commission may set up and use on such premises any apparatus and appliances necessary therefor.
(c) The public utility shall have the right to be represented at the making of such investigations and examinations, tests, and inspections.