Gov. Mike Easley's office blamed oil companies Monday for prolonging Charlotte's gas shortage, saying they were limiting distribution to local gas stations despite a large shipment that came in Friday.

“The tanks at the terminal in Charlotte have plenty of gas,” said Alan Hirsch, Easley's policy director. “This large delivery came in as expected and still is coming in.”

Meanwhile, the U.S. Department of Energy said Monday that one of two gas pipelines serving Charlotte was back to pre-hurricane operation level, an announcement that Mayor Pat McCrory cheered as “welcomed news for the Charlotte consumer and commuter.” (more…)