at Belco's Pembroke facility.

And the extension will ensure the Island is provided with power in an efficient, environmentally-friendly way well into the new Millennium, according to chief executive officer Garry Madeiros.

"It has been a very complicated and fast-tracked project, involving many people, many cultures and an extraordinary amount of work all within a relatively short time period,'' he said.

It was last summer when bystanders gaped in awe as the two new 140-ton engines for the project were transported along Front Street at a snail's pace by massive trucks.

After 18 months of construction involving 110 full-time staff putting in about 70,000 man-hours, the plant's start-up button was pressed by Ms Smith in the presence of a host of other local dignitaries.

The project included the construction of a second 205-foot chimney at the site and the installation of a state-of-the-art computer monitoring system.

It also utilised the latest technology to ensure less pollution and more thermal efficiency.

It will add 29 megawatts (MW) of power to the facility's available output, bringing it up to 168 MW.

"In July last year, demand reached a record peak of 102.2 MW,'' said Mr.

Madeiros. "We expect demand this summer to be even higher.'' "As our economy and infrastructure continues to expand and develop,'' he said, "it is Belco's responsibility, as sole provider of electricity, to keep pace and be able to satisfy this increasing demand, while adhering to strict environmental legislation.'' Mr. Madeiros said the new technologies in the plant had "stringent specifications which ensure that noise, vibration and ambient air quality levels are lower than those associated with the existing plant''.

And he added: "The additional capacity of the new engines allows us to phase out certain older, less efficient engines, thereby reducing the overall impact on the environment.'' The main contractor for the project was Bermiester and Wain Scandinavian Contractor (BWSC), based in Denmark.

But, as Mr. Madeiros pointed out, approximately 75 other companies were involved in different parts of the construction, both from Bermuda and overseas.

Mr. Madeiros explained that the project "was not an easy one''.

"Suffice to say, the site was extremely crowded and conditions were often difficult -- during the summer months work was being carried out in more than 90 degrees of heat.

"Where we are now took on the appearance of a war zone,'' he said.

Premier Smith said the development was an excellent example of Belco's strong commitment to the Island.

"Belco is an important community partner and this new plant will help ensure in future prosperity for Bermuda.'' Premier Smith also said the construction was "a reflection of a recent growth in Bermuda's economy, in particular, in the international business sector''.