After the failure of one of Belco's newest engines, Bermuda may have to suffer through rolling blackouts as the electricity company tries to match demand.

The alternator failure of the engine, which caused a blackout in several parishes on June 11, has reduced Belco's generating capacity by slightly over 8.5 percent, and the engine will not be active again until at least January 2010.

A press release from Belco said, "The process of disconnecting the alternator from the engine, then shipping it, repairing it, returning it to Bermuda, and re-commissioning it is expected to take at least seven months."

Because of the reduction of electricity produced, Belco may resort to rolling blackouts in order to keep Bermuda running.

"Hopefully our engines will be running fine, and we will not have to shed loads," said Susan McGrath-Smith, corporate communications officer for Belco.

While Belco hopes to avoid further blackouts, Mrs. McGrath Smith said they intend to try to keep the public notified of further power cuts.

"We will give as much notice as we can, but it depends on the situation," said Mrs. McGrath-Smith.

Rolling blackouts began Monday afternoon, with a second occurring yesterday morning. Future power outages will be distributed evenly over the Island, except for the City of Hamilton and circuits connecting essential services, such as the hospital and the airport.

In order to help prevent further blackouts, Belco is asking residents to reduce power usage during peak hours, such as between 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. when both offices and homes are typically using power.

"Try to turn your air conditioner on later, do laundry late at night instead of as soon as you get home," suggested Mrs. McGrath-Smith.