By John Murawski
Critics of the proposed merger between Progress Energy and Duke Energy urged state regulators Monday to hold another round of public hearings to explore alleged secrets and rumors about the utility merger that could sap the public benefits of the $26 billion deal.
N.C. Waste Awareness and Reduction Network, an advocacy group, cited a litany of concerns that the group contends demand a public airing before the merger can be approved. The Durham-based organization was joined by the N.C. Justice Center, N.C. Housing Coalition, N.C. League of Conservation Voters and others in its bid to delay or derail the pending merger.
Among the rumors N.C. WARN cites is that Duke’s board of directors allegedly is reviewing a confidential study this week of the costs and feasibility of repairing Progress’ Crystal River nuclear plant in Florida, which has been down since 2009.
