Duke Energy is now the largest utility in the country. But the company is moving forward without its expected leader.
Gurnal Scott: Duke Energy held a conference call with reporters to mark the merger's completion. And board member Anne Maynard Gray had another announcement.
Anne Maynard Gray: Bill Johnson has resigned as president and chief executive officer of the combined company by mutual agreement with the board.
Gray didn't give any specifics but credited Johnson with playing a major role in the merger process. New CEO Jim Rogers says he realizes there are those in the new company who are loyal to Johnson.
Jim Rogers: We have a very experienced team from both companies. And I look forward to working with everyone to integrate this company.
Duke Energy cleared its last regulatory hurdle when South Carolina approved the merger plan yesterday.