Latest local news, weather and high school sports from the Midlands

Tuesday, September 06, 2011  South Carolina regulators have approved a merger agreement for Duke Energy Corp. and Progress Energy Inc. as they create the nation's largest utility company.

Thursday, July 14, 2011  A public hearing on a proposed rate hike by Carolina Water Service was flooded Wednesday by more than 200 Midlands residents and business owners. The utility is requesting an 80 percent increase in its water rate and a 14 percent increase in its sewer rate.

Tuesday, July 12, 2011  The discussion will be over the application filed by Carolina Water Service to raise water and sewer rates.  CWS wants an 80 percent increase in water rates and a 14 percent hike in sewer rates.

Wednesday, June 01, 2011  The South Carolina Office of Regulatory Staff said Wednesday that North Carolina regulators last week approved their request to intervene and become a party of record in the merger of Duke Energy Corp. and Progress Energy Inc.

Monday, May 16, 2011  South Carolina regulators are considering whether Duke Energy should continue to spend money to keep its nuclear options open.

Friday, May 06, 2011  The South Carolina Office of Regulatory Staff says it has filed to intervene and participate in hearings on the merger of Duke Energy Corp. and Progress Energy Inc. The deal needs approval from North Carolina regulators.

Wednesday, April 20, 2011  The Office of Regulatory Staff said Wednesday that Carolina Water Service Inc. wants to raise rates from an average of $36 a month for full-service water customers to more than $65. Typical full-service sewer customers would see a smaller increase of about $5 a month to $44.

Thursday, September 16, 2010  Governor Mark Sanford has proclaimed September 12-18 as Lifeline Awareness Week in South Carolina.

Wednesday, September 15, 2010  Access to local emergency services and community resources is vital to low income and elderly residents.  That's why the Public Service Commission of South Carolina and the Office of Regulatory Staff are offering the lifeline program.

Friday, June 04, 2010  Last week, the utility requested to raise rates again.

Monday, April 19, 2010  The S.C. Office of Regulatory Staff filed a petition against Carolina Water Service after being flooded with complaints.