Belco has called a meeting tonight with residents living near its power plant to provide an update on the work it is doing to mitigate pollution and information on the recent Fuel Adjustment Rate increase.

The company did not send a representative to a meeting called by the Bermuda Clean Air Coalition on October 26, the pressure group said.

Mark Pacheco, the director of occupational health, safety and environment and business continuity at Belco, wrote to “neighbours” of the plant saying: “We would like to invite you to attend a meeting where we will provide updates on the North Power Station, inclusive of remediation efforts, as well as the Fuel Adjustment Rate.

“Space is limited to 40 people as we want to ensure that the number of participants allows for a productive and collaborative environment.

“We request that all attendees sign up in advance using the link below to reserve a spot. If there are specific questions, please send them in advance to communications@belco.bm and we will address them in the meeting.”

Sign-up for the meeting is available here.

The meeting is scheduled to take place tonight in the Aircare showroom at 25 Serpentine Road from 5pm to 7.30pm.

A spokesman for Belco confirmed that members of the media are not invited.

Belco has faced protests related to pollution from its power plant. Area residents claim that soot sometimes rains down on those living near the stacks.

There has been a more recent public outcry over a dramatic increase in the price of electricity.

The change, which increased electricity bills by about 20 per cent, came into effect on October 1.