time-of-use rates, the president of the Bermuda Electric Light Co. Ltd. said yesterday.

Mr. Alfred Oughton said Belco had not ruled out breaks which Bermuda hoteliers have requested.

But until results of a consumer survey conducted by a US consultant are completed, it was too soon to say what could be done to reduce their operating costs, he said.

Belco was recently approached by hoteliers, who are looking for help from a number of areas to reduce operating costs. However, no decisions have yet been made, he said.

"We recognise the hotels are up against it. We will work with them in any way we can to see if we can assist them in any way. That doesn't necessarily mean coming out with an outright reduction in rates.'' Like most items, electricity is more costly in Bermuda than elsewhere, Mr.

Oughton said. That is due to the cost of importing materials, and the fact Belco is unable to draw on a neighbour's supply during a shortage and must therefore build larger generating stations, he said.

The consumer survey, which included all types of electricity users on the Island, is partly intended to show Belco what support there would be for demand management measures, and different rates for electricity, depending on the time of day.

Hotels could save money, with Belco's help, by using electricity more economically, Mr. Oughton said.

The results of the survey are still being analysed. Mr. Oughton said he did not know when they would be available.

Mr. Alf Oughton.