(1) When two or more applications for adjudicative proceeding involve a similar issue, the applications may be consolidated by the presiding officer and the hearings conducted together. The presiding officer may consolidate on his/her own motion or upon the request of a party.

(2) A party scheduled for a consolidated proceeding may request to withdraw from the consolidated proceeding in favor of an individual proceeding. The presiding officer may grant a motion to withdraw from a consolidated proceeding at any time when good cause is shown.

(3) Each respondent in a consolidated proceeding shall retain the right to representation.