The North Carolina Utilities Commission announced this week its approval of the proposed merger between Duke Energy Corporation and Progress Energy, Inc. The combined company will serve approximately 3 million customers in North Carolina including many in Wilkes.  The merger guarantees at least $650 million in fuel and fuel-related savings to be allocated among utility customers and is expected to produce operating efficiencies to be reflected in future rates.  In addition, the Commission imposed conditions to protect consumers.  It is requiring the merged companies commit $16.48 million annually in community and charitable support during the first four years, as well as $10 million in energy assistance for low-income customers, $5 million for workforce development and $2 million for NC Greenpower, a nonprofit promoting renewable energy.  The Commission is also requiring any costs associated with the merger to be paid by the companies and their shareholders – not by North Carolina utility customers.