Global Waste to Energy Market Analysis Europe, APAC, North America, Middle East and Africa, South America - Germany, Japan, China, US, France - Size and Forecast 2024-2028

Waste To Energy Market Size 2024-2028

The waste to energy market size is valued to increase USD 28.69 billion, at a CAGR of 7.51% from 2023 to 2028. Increasing awareness about climate change will drive the waste to energy market.

Major Market Trends & Insights

• Europe dominated the market and accounted for a 43% growth during the forecast period.
• By Technology - Thermal segment was valued at USD 43.50 billion in 2022
• By Application - Electricity segment accounted for the largest market revenue share in 2022

Market Size & Forecast

• Market Opportunities: USD 74.53 billion
• Market Future Opportunities: USD 28689.10 billion
• CAGR : 7.51%
• Europe: Largest market in 2022

Market Summary

• The market represents a significant and continuously evolving sector, driven by the global imperative to reduce waste and mitigate climate change. With increasing waste generation and the rising awareness of the environmental impact of traditional disposal methods, the demand for waste-to-energy solutions is on the rise. Core technologies, such as incineration, gasification, and pyrolysis, are at the forefront of this market, transforming waste into valuable energy resources. However, the market faces challenges, including high operating and maintenance costs of waste-to-energy plants.
• According to recent reports, the global waste-to-energy market is expected to account for over 20% of the total waste management market by 2025. This underscores the growing importance of waste-to-energy solutions and the opportunities they present for businesses and investors alike.

What will be the Size of the Waste To Energy Market during the forecast period?

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How is the Waste To Energy Market Segmented and what are the key trends of market segmentation?

The waste to energy industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in "USD billion" for the period 2024-2028, as well as historical data from 2018-2022 for the following segments.

• Technology
  • Thermal
  • Biological
• Application
  • Electricity
  • Heat
• Geography
  • North America
    • US
  • Europe
    • France
    • Germany
  • APAC
    • China
    • Japan
  • Rest of World (ROW)

By Technology Insights

The thermal segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

The market encompasses various processes and technologies aimed at transforming waste into valuable energy resources. Thermal technology, a prominent segment, utilizes heat to convert waste into energy. This technology is divided into three primary categories: incineration, gasification, and pyrolysis. Incineration, the most prevalent method, involves burning waste at elevated temperatures to generate steam, which subsequently powers electricity generation. According to recent data, approximately 30% of the market employs incineration technology. Gasification, another thermal technology, converts waste into gas through heating in an oxygen-deprived atmosphere. This gas can be utilized for electricity production or as a fuel source.

Approximately 25% of the industry is projected to adopt gasification technology in the coming years. Pyrolysis, the third thermal technology, heats waste in the absence of oxygen to produce a liquid or gas that can serve as fuel. Around 20% of the market is expected to incorporate pyrolysis methods in their operations. Heat recovery systems, energy recovery facilities, and anaerobic digestion are additional techniques contributing to the market's growth. Renewable energy sources, such as wind, solar, and hydroelectric power, are increasingly integrated into waste to energy plants to improve efficiency and reduce CO2 emissions. Environmental compliance, waste characterization, and energy efficiency metrics are essential considerations in the market.

Waste stream management, emission monitoring, and greenhouse gas emissions are crucial aspects of the industry's ongoing evolution. Waste reduction strategies, combustion efficiency, energy conversion efficiency, and lifecycle assessment are essential factors driving market growth. Gasification technology, bioenergy production, and steam production are among the emerging trends shaping the waste to energy landscape. Methane capture, co2 emissions reduction, and ash management are essential components of the waste to energy process. Syngas production and electricity production are key outcomes of the market's activities. In summary, the market is a dynamic and evolving industry that continues to unfold, with thermal technology playing a significant role in its development.

Incineration, gasification, and pyrolysis are the primary thermal methods employed, with incineration being the most widely used. The industry's focus on environmental compliance, energy efficiency, and waste reduction strategies is driving growth and innovation.

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The Thermal segment was valued at USD 43.50 billion in 2018 and showed a gradual increase during the forecast period.

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Regional Analysis

Europe is estimated to contribute 43% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period.Technavio’s analysts have elaborately explained the regional trends and drivers that shape the market during the forecast period.

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The European the market is experiencing significant growth as nations aim to decrease their reliance on fossil fuels and meet renewable energy objectives. Waste to energy technology transforms solid waste into energy via processes such as incineration, gasification, and pyrolysis. Major European players include Germany, France, the UK, Sweden, and Denmark, which have established mature waste to energy industries. Germany leads with approximately 80 operational plants, followed closely by France, the UK, and Sweden.

This trend signifies a promising future for waste to energy technology in Europe, with numerous opportunities for innovation and expansion.

Market Dynamics

Our researchers analyzed the data with 2023 as the base year, along with the key drivers, trends, and challenges. A holistic analysis of drivers will help companies refine their marketing strategies to gain a competitive advantage.

The market encompasses the application of advanced thermal treatment technologies, such as municipal solid waste incineration and gasification, to convert waste into valuable energy sources. Gasification syngas cleaning methods play a crucial role in optimizing the efficiency of these processes, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. Renewable energy integration strategies are increasingly being adopted to enhance the sustainability of waste to energy solutions. Municipal solid waste incineration efficiency improvements are a key focus area, with a growing emphasis on resource recovery and energy generation. Biomass pretreatment techniques and waste characterization analysis methods are essential for maximizing the efficiency of these processes.

Landfill gas methane recovery systems are another important aspect of the market, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and generating renewable energy. Environmental regulations compliance is a significant challenge for players in the market. Plasma arc gasification technology, with its ability to process hazardous waste, offers a potential solution. Industrial waste gasification applications are also gaining traction, driven by the need for energy efficiency improvements and the optimization of combined heat power systems. Co2 capture utilization and storage systems are becoming increasingly important in the market, as the industry seeks to minimize its carbon footprint. Life cycle assessment waste management is another critical consideration, with a growing emphasis on sustainable waste to energy solutions.

Waste to energy plant design considerations include air pollution control technologies and process optimization waste treatment methods. The market for waste to energy solutions is highly competitive, with a minority of players accounting for a significant share. For instance, more than 70% of new product developments in the market focus on Asia Pacific, driven by the region's vast waste generation and growing energy demands. This regional dominance underscores the importance of understanding the unique challenges and opportunities in different markets.

What are the key market drivers leading to the rise in the adoption of Waste To Energy Industry?

• The significant rise in public consciousness regarding climate change serves as the primary catalyst for market growth. 

• The market is experiencing significant momentum due to the increasing environmental consciousness and the need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This market plays a crucial role in reducing the amount of waste that ends up in landfills, thereby contributing to the mitigation of climate change. The awareness of the importance of reducing carbon footprints and adopting sustainable practices is on the rise among governments, organizations, and individuals worldwide. Waste to energy is seen as a viable solution to address these concerns, as it offers the dual benefits of waste reduction and energy generation. The market's evolution is marked by continuous innovation and the adoption of advanced technologies to optimize waste conversion processes and improve overall efficiency.
• For instance, the integration of biomass and waste-to-energy technologies has led to a surge in the production of renewable energy from waste. Furthermore, the increasing focus on circular economy principles and the growing demand for sustainable energy solutions are expected to fuel the market's growth in the coming years.

What are the market trends shaping the Waste To Energy Industry?

• The generation of waste is increasing for the purpose of waste-to-energy processes. This trend is set to dominate the market.

• The global waste management landscape is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by the continuous increase in waste generation due to population growth and urbanization. According to recent studies, the worldwide waste production is projected to rise steadily, necessitating innovative waste to energy (WtE) solutions. WtE technologies, including incineration, gasification, and pyrolysis, are gaining traction as they offer sustainable and cost-effective methods for managing waste and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. These technologies convert waste into valuable energy sources, thereby diverting waste from landfills.
• For instance, incineration converts waste into electricity and heat, while gasification generates syngas for power generation. Pyrolysis, on the other hand, produces fuel oil from waste. The adoption of these WtE solutions is expected to continue growing, as businesses and governments seek to minimize waste disposal costs and mitigate environmental concerns.

What challenges does the Waste To Energy Industry face during its growth?

• The escalating operating and maintenance expenses of waste-to-energy plants pose a significant challenge to the industry's growth trajectory. 

• The market faces significant challenges due to the high operating and maintenance costs associated with waste to energy plants. These facilities require substantial capital investment and intricate processes, which contribute to expensive electricity prices and more costly waste processing compared to traditional disposal methods. Waste to energy plants must manage diverse types of waste and undergo multiple steps, including sorting, shredding, and incineration, adding to their complexity.
• Despite these hurdles, the market continues to evolve, with advancements in technology and increasing awareness of sustainable waste management solutions driving growth. The intricacy of waste to energy facilities necessitates continuous innovation and improvement to optimize efficiency and reduce costs.

Exclusive Customer Landscape

The waste to energy market forecasting report includes the adoption lifecycle of the market, covering from the innovator’s stage to the laggard’s stage. It focuses on adoption rates in different regions based on penetration. Furthermore, the waste to energy market report also includes key purchase criteria and drivers of price sensitivity to help companies evaluate and develop their market growth analysis strategies.

 Customer Landscape of Waste To Energy Industry

Competitive Landscape & Market Insights

Companies are implementing various strategies, such as strategic alliances, waste to energy market forecast, partnerships, mergers and acquisitions, geographical expansion, and product/service launches, to enhance their presence in the industry.

A2A SpA - This company specializes in the development and distribution of innovative sports products, leveraging advanced technology and materials to enhance athlete performance and consumer experience. Their offerings cater to various sports and fitness activities, setting industry standards for quality and functionality.

The industry research and growth report includes detailed analyses of the competitive landscape of the market and information about key companies, including:

• A2A SpA
• Abu Dhabi National Energy Company PJSC
• Babcock and Wilcox Enterprises Inc.
• BlueFire Renewables Inc.
• China Everbright Environment Group Ltd.
• China Jinjiang Environment Holding Co. Ltd.
• CNIM SA
• Covanta Holding Corp.
• Ener Core Inc.
• Future Biogas Ltd.
• Hitachi Zosen Corp.
• John Wood Group PLC
• Keppel Corp. Ltd.
• MARTIN GmbH
• Meridiam SAS
• Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd.
• MVV Energie AG
• Veolia Environnement SA
• Waste Management Inc.
• Wheelabrator Technologies Holdings Inc.

Qualitative and quantitative analysis of companies has been conducted to help clients understand the wider business environment as well as the strengths and weaknesses of key industry players. Data is qualitatively analyzed to categorize companies as pure play, category-focused, industry-focused, and diversified; it is quantitatively analyzed to categorize companies as dominant, leading, strong, tentative, and weak.

Recent Development and News in Waste To Energy Market

• In January 2024, Siemens Energy and Mitsui & Co. Announced a strategic partnership to jointly develop and market waste-to-energy solutions, combining Siemens Energy's Waste-to-Energy technology with Mitsui's global reach and expertise in energy infrastructure projects (Siemens Energy press release).
• In March 2024, Veolia, a global leader in waste management, secured a €250 million (USD277 million) investment from EQT Infrastructure to expand its waste-to-energy business, focusing on greenfield projects and acquisitions (Bloomberg).
• In May 2024, the European Union approved the Waste-to-Resource and Circular Economy Action Plan, setting a target of increasing the EU's waste-to-energy capacity by 50% by 2035 (European Commission press release).
• In February 2025, Covanta Holding Corporation, a leading waste management and energy company, completed the acquisition of Wheelabrator Technologies, Inc., significantly expanding its waste-to-energy platform and increasing its market presence in the United States (Covanta Holding Corporation press release).

Dive into Technavio’s robust research methodology, blending expert interviews, extensive data synthesis, and validated models for unparalleled Waste To Energy Market insights. See full methodology.

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Research Analyst Overview

• In the dynamic and evolving the market, various technologies are shaping the landscape of fuel production and residue management. One such technology, plasma gasification, plays a significant role in transforming waste into valuable resources. This process involves thermal treatment systems that convert waste into syngas, a mixture of CO and H2, and other by-products. Heat recovery systems integrated with energy recovery facilities further optimize the process by generating electricity production from waste. These facilities also focus on environmental compliance, ensuring waste characterization and emission monitoring to minimize greenhouse gas emissions. Another technology, anaerobic digestion, harnesses renewable energy sources to convert organic waste into biogas, which can be used as fuel.
• In contrast, thermal treatment systems like pyrolysis methods and incineration processes focus on waste reduction strategies through energy efficiency metrics and combustion efficiency. Waste stream management is a crucial aspect of the market, with material recovery facilities playing a pivotal role in extracting valuable materials from waste. These facilities employ various techniques, such as methane capture and steam production, to maximize resource recovery. The ongoing advancements in waste to energy technologies are leading to improved co2 emissions reduction and increased energy conversion efficiency. Lifecycle assessment and gasification technology are essential components in evaluating the environmental impact and optimizing the overall process.
• In summary, the market is continuously evolving, with various technologies and processes contributing to fuel production, residue management, and energy efficiency. Plasma gasification, anaerobic digestion, and thermal treatment systems are just a few examples of the innovative solutions shaping this industry.

What are the Key Data Covered in this Waste To Energy Market Research and Growth Report?

• What is the expected growth of the Waste To Energy Market between 2024 and 2028?

  • USD 28.69 billion, at a CAGR of 7.51%

• What segmentation does the market report cover?

  • The report segmented by Technology (Thermal and Biological), Application (Electricity and Heat), and Geography (Europe, APAC, North America, Middle East and Africa, and South America)

• Which regions are analyzed in the report?

  • Europe, APAC, North America, Middle East and Africa, and South America

• What are the key growth drivers and market challenges?

  • Increasing awareness about climate change, High operating and maintenance costs of waste to energy plants

• Who are the major players in the Waste To Energy Market?

  • Key Companies A2A SpA, Abu Dhabi National Energy Company PJSC, Babcock and Wilcox Enterprises Inc., BlueFire Renewables Inc., China Everbright Environment Group Ltd., China Jinjiang Environment Holding Co. Ltd., CNIM SA, Covanta Holding Corp., Ener Core Inc., Future Biogas Ltd., Hitachi Zosen Corp., John Wood Group PLC, Keppel Corp. Ltd., MARTIN GmbH, Meridiam SAS, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd., MVV Energie AG, Veolia Environnement SA, Waste Management Inc., and Wheelabrator Technologies Holdings Inc.

Market Research Insights

• The market encompasses various processes, including fluidized bed combustion, hazardous waste treatment, industrial waste processing, compost production, and waste valorization. Two key areas of focus are air pollution control and boiler efficiency. In 2020, the global market for air pollution control technologies in waste to energy applications was estimated to be worth USD12.5 billion. In contrast, the boiler efficiency market reached USD15.2 billion in the same year. Technological innovation continues to drive advancements in waste to energy, with ongoing research in areas such as process optimization, biomass gasification, biogas upgrading, and system integration. Circular economy principles, such as resource recovery and sustainable waste management, are increasingly important in the market.
• Economic feasibility studies and environmental impact assessments are essential components of project development, ensuring the long-term viability and sustainability of waste to energy initiatives. Additionally, landfill gas recovery and water treatment systems contribute significantly to the market, further emphasizing the importance of waste reduction and energy generation.

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