INDIANAPOLIS — Gov. Mike Braun is calling for an investigation into NIPSCO following widespread power outages in northwest Indiana that began after severe weather on Aug. 11.

Braun directed the Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor on Monday to file a complaint and petition the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission to investigate the utility.

The investigation would examine how NIPSCO prepared for and responded to the outages, including its vegetation management and right-of-way maintenance.

State regulators also would review whether NIPSCO used money approved for infrastructure and reliability improvements as intended.

About 10,000 customers in northwest Indiana remained without power nearly two weeks after the storms, according to Braun’s office.

The governor said state agencies have taken steps to help utility crews restore power, including clearing roads, alleyways and debris.

“Hoosiers deserve accountability,” Braun said in a statement.

The investigation would focus on NIPSCO’s management and practices, while Braun praised utility and state workers who have been involved in restoration efforts.

The Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission oversees investor-owned utilities in the state and has authority over utility rates, charges and service.