Power utility PPC has found itself unable to take full advantage of current market conditions making lignite-fired power generation lower in cost compared to natural gas-fueled generation as the utility has winded down on maintenance levels at lignite units in anticipation of their expected full withdrawal by the end of 2023 as part of the country’s decarbonization plan.

The utility’s decreased maintenance of its lignite units has led to technical issues not enabling the facilities to operate at full capacity.

The profit margin for lignite-based generation has increased considerably but PPC is not able to significantly boost production for increased sales of lignite-based electricity generation.

Lignite’s share of the country’s energy mix is currently at single-digit levels, registering a 9 percent share in September, according to a recent monthly report released by power grid operator IPTO.