Zambia power woes worsen,may dent '08 copper output

LUSAKA, Jan 24 (Reuters) - Zambia's copper output for 2008 could be hurt by a serious power crisis that has gripped the country, forcing the rationing of power and suspension of operations at copper mines, officials said on Thursday.

"If the power shortages continue, then we are in for a rude shock in terms of production," Frederick Bantubonse, the head of the Zambia Chamber of Mines told Reuters.

Zambia is yet to give a projection 2008 copper output.

The country expected to produce 670,000 tonnes of copper last year and the finance minister will on Friday indicate how much copper was produced when he presents the budget.

Copper producers have reduced their daily output following a series of nationwide power failures since the weekend.