Flue Gas Desulfurization FGD Market Research Report By Technology (Wet Flue Gas Desulfurization (FGD), Dry Flue Gas Desulfurization (FGD), Semi-Dry Flue Gas Desulfurization (FGD)), By Application (Coal-fired Power Plants, Gas-fired Power Plants, Industrial Boilers, Cement Plants, Steel Plants), By Absorbent Type (Limestone, Lime, Sodium Carbonate, Calcium Hydroxide, Magnesium Oxide) and By Regional (North America, Europe, South America, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa) - Forecast to 2032

Global Flue Gas Desulfurization FGD Market Overview

As per MRFR analysis, the Flue Gas Desulfurization FGD Market Size was estimated at 23.18 (USD Billion) in 2022. The Flue Gas Desulfurization FGD Market Industry is expected to grow from 24.97(USD Billion) in 2023 to 48.82 (USD Billion) by 2032. The Flue Gas Desulfurization FGD Market CAGR (growth rate) is expected to be around 7.73% during the forecast period (2024 - 2032).

Key Flue Gas Desulfurization FGD Market Trends Highlighted

The FGD market is growing at a consistent rate globally because of the strict environmental guidelines that are meant to limit SOx emissions. Governments around the world are increasingly enforcing emission standards, especially in areas with high industrial activities and coal power plants. Consequently, there has been a higher demand for FGD systems that effectively eliminate SOx from industrial as well as power plant discharges. Also, the adoption of FGD technologies is being driven by increased concerns relating to air pollution and its effects on human health and the environment. Market growth opportunities include an expansion of renewable energy sources that may reduce reliance on fossil fuels, together with developing advanced FGD systems that have better efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Notably, one of the recent developments in the FGD market has been combining this system with carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology, which presents some possibilities to reduce SOx emissions alongside greenhouse gas emissions. Furthermore, wet FGD systems have become a subject of interest, given that they are more efficient and eco-friendly than dry ones.

Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review

Flue Gas Desulfurization FGD Market Drivers

Increasing Stringency of Environmental Regulations

Governments worldwide are implementing stricter environmental regulations to reduce air pollution and protect public health. These regulations often target sulfur dioxide (SO2) emissions from industrial processes, such as power generation and manufacturing. Flue gas desulfurization (FGD) systems are a key technology for removing SO2 from flue gases, and the increasing stringency of environmental regulations is driving demand for FGD systems in the Global Flue Gas Desulfurization FGD Market Industry.For instance, the European Union has implemented the Industrial Emissions Directive (IED), which sets strict limits on SO2 emissions from power plants. The IED has led to a significant increase in the demand for FGD systems in Europe, and similar regulations are being implemented in other regions, such as China and India. The growing demand for FGD systems to comply with environmental regulations is a major driver of growth in the Global Flue Gas Desulfurization FGD Market Industry.

Rising Demand for Cleaner Energy

The increasing demand for cleaner energy sources, such as natural gas and renewable energy, is also driving growth in the Global Flue Gas Desulfurization FGD Market Industry. Natural gas produces significantly less SO2 emissions than coal, and renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind, produce no SO2 emissions. As the world transitions to cleaner energy sources, the demand for FGD systems will decline in some regions. However, the demand for FGD systems will remain strong in regions that continue to rely on coal-fired power plants.For instance, China is the world's largest consumer of coal, and the country is expected to continue to rely on coal for a significant portion of its energy needs in the coming years. This will continue to drive demand for FGD systems in China, even as the country invests in renewable energy sources.

Technological Advancements

Technological advancements are also driving growth in the Global Flue Gas Desulfurization FGD Market Industry. FGD systems have become more efficient and cost-effective in recent years, and new technologies are being developed to further improve the performance of FGD systems. For instance, new sorbents are being developed that can remove more SO2 from flue gases, and new designs for FGD systems are being developed that are more compact and efficient.These technological advancements are making FGD systems more attractive to power plants and other industrial facilities, and they are expected to continue to drive growth in the Global Flue Gas Desulfurization FGD Market Industry.

Flue Gas Desulfurization FGD Market Segment Insights:

Flue Gas Desulfurization FGD Market Technology Insights

The Flue Gas Desulfurization (FGD) market is segmented based on technology into wet FGD, dry FGD, and semi-dry FGD. Wet FGD systems are the most mature and widely used technology, accounting for over 70% of the global FGD market revenue in 2023. Wet FGD systems use a liquid absorbent, typically limestone or lime, to remove sulfur dioxide (SO2) from flue gases. Dry FGD systems use a dry sorbent, such as activated carbon or sodium bicarbonate, to remove SO2 from flue gases. Semi-dry FGD systems use a combination of wet and dry technologies to remove SO2 from flue gases.The market for FGD systems is expected to grow significantly in the coming years, driven by increasingly stringent environmental regulations and the need to reduce air pollution. Wet FGD systems are typically more efficient than dry FGD systems, and they can also remove other pollutants from flue gases, such as particulate matter and heavy metals. However, wet FGD systems are also more expensive to install and operate than dry FGD systems. Dry FGD systems are becoming increasingly popular due to their lower cost and ease of installation. Dry FGD systems are typically less efficient than wet FGD systems, but they can be more effective in removing SO2 from flue gases that are high in particulate matter.Semi-dry FGD systems offer a compromise between wet and dry FGD systems. Semi-dry FGD systems are typically less efficient than wet FGD systems, but they are more efficient than dry FGD systems. Semi-dry FGD systems are also less expensive to install and operate than wet FGD systems. The choice of FGD technology depends on a number of factors, including the specific requirements of the application, the cost of installation and operation, and the environmental regulations that apply.

Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review

Flue Gas Desulfurization FGD Market Application Insights

The Global Flue Gas Desulfurization FGD Market segmentation by application includes coal-fired power plants, gas-fired power plants, industrial boilers, cement plants, and steel plants. Among these, coal-fired power plants held the largest market share in 2023, accounting for over 40% of the global revenue. This dominance is attributed to the extensive use of coal for electricity generation, particularly in developing countries. However, with increasing environmental concerns and regulations, the demand for FGD systems in gas-fired power plants and industrial boilers is expected to grow significantly, driven by the need to reduce sulfur dioxide emissions.Cement and steel plants are also major contributors to the market, with a growing focus on reducing their environmental impact.

Flue Gas Desulfurization FGD Market Absorbent Type Insights

The absorbent type segment plays a crucial role in the Global Flue Gas Desulfurization FGD Market. Among the various absorbents used, limestone holds a dominant position, accounting for a significant share of the market revenue in 2023. Its effectiveness in removing sulfur dioxide (SO2) emissions and cost-effectiveness make it a preferred choice. Lime, another commonly used absorbent, is expected to witness substantial growth during the forecast period due to its high reactivity and absorption capacity. Sodium carbonate and calcium hydroxide are niche absorbents with specific applications.Magnesium oxide, with its high absorption efficiency and ability to handle high temperatures, is anticipated to gain traction in the near future. The Global Flue Gas Desulfurization FGD Market is expected to grow at a steady pace, driven by increasing environmental regulations and rising demand for cleaner energy sources.

Flue Gas Desulfurization FGD Market Regional Insights

The regional segmentation of the Global Flue Gas Desulfurization FGD Market presents a diverse landscape with varying market dynamics and growth opportunities. In 2023, North America held the largest market share, driven by stringent environmental regulations and the presence of major power generation industries. Europe followed closely, with a significant market presence due to its focus on reducing sulfur emissions and its well-established industrial sector. APAC is projected to witness the highest growth rate during the forecast period, owing to the rapid industrialization and increasing demand for energy in developing countries like China and India.South America and MEA hold relatively smaller market shares but offer promising growth prospects due to growing investments in infrastructure and power generation projects. These regional insights highlight the diverse opportunities and challenges faced by players in the Global Flue Gas Desulfurization FGD Market, with each region presenting unique market dynamics and growth potential.

Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review

Flue Gas Desulfurization FGD Market Key Players And Competitive Insights:

Major players in the Flue Gas Desulfurization FGD Market are constantly striving to gain a competitive edge by introducing innovative technologies, expanding their product portfolios, and strengthening their market presence. Leading Flue Gas Desulfurization FGD Market players are focusing on developing advanced Flue Gas Desulfurization FGD systems that offer improved efficiency, reliability, and cost-effectiveness. These players are also investing heavily in research and development to meet the evolving needs of the Flue Gas Desulfurization FGD Market industry. The Flue Gas Desulfurization FGD Market development is driven by factors such as increasing environmental regulations, rising demand for cleaner energy sources, and growing awareness about the harmful effects of air pollution. The Flue Gas Desulfurization FGD Market Competitive Landscape is characterized by intense competition among major players, with each player vying for a larger market share.A notable competitor in the Flue Gas Desulfurization FGD Market is Babcock & Wilcox Enterprises, Inc., a leading provider of environmental and energy technologies. The company offers a wide range of Flue Gas Desulfurization FGD systems, including wet scrubbers, dry scrubbers, and semi-dry scrubbers. Babcock & Wilcox Enterprises, Inc. has a strong global presence and has successfully deployed its Flue Gas Desulfurization FGD systems in various industries, including power generation, cement, and steel. Another key player in the Flue Gas Desulfurization FGD Market is Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd., a Japanese multinational engineering and manufacturing company. Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. offers advanced Flue Gas Desulfurization FGD systems that utilize innovative technologies to achieve high removal efficiencies. The company has a proven track record in providing reliable and cost-effective Flue Gas Desulfurization FGD solutions to customers worldwide.GE Power, a subsidiary of General Electric Company, is another prominent competitor in the Flue Gas Desulfurization FGD Market. The company offers a comprehensive portfolio of Flue Gas Desulfurization FGD systems, including wet scrubbers, dry scrubbers, and hybrid systems. GE Power has a strong focus on research and development and has developed advanced Flue Gas Desulfurization FGD technologies that meet the stringent environmental regulations in various regions. The company has a global presence and has successfully implemented its Flue Gas Desulfurization FGD systems in power plants, refineries, and other industrial facilities.

Key Companies in the Flue Gas Desulfurization FGD Market Include:

• Babcock Wilcox Enterprises Inc.


• Shanghai Electric Group Corporation


• UBE Industries, Ltd.


• Toshiba Corporation


• Posco Engineering Construction Co., Ltd.


• China Huaneng Group Co., Ltd.


• Harbin Electric Corporation


• Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd.


• Alstom Power Systems


• Doosan Heavy Industries Construction Co., Ltd.


• Foster Wheeler AG


• Sumitomo Heavy Industries, Ltd.


• General Electrics Company

Flue Gas Desulfurization FGD Market Industry Developments

The global Flue Gas Desulfurization (FGD) market is projected to reach USD 48.82 billion by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 7.73% from 2024 to 2032. This growth can be attributed to stringent environmental regulations aimed at reducing sulfur dioxide (SO2) emissions from industrial processes, particularly in the power generation sector. The increasing adoption of FGD systems in emerging economies, such as China and India, is also driving market expansion.Recent developments in the FGD market include technological advancements in scrubber designs and the development of more efficient and cost-effective FGD technologies. For instance, in 2023, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Engineering (MHI) introduced a new wet limestone FGD system that claims to reduce energy consumption and operating costs. Furthermore, governments worldwide are implementing supportive policies and incentives to promote FGD adoption, further bolstering market growth.

Flue Gas Desulfurization FGD Market Segmentation Insights

• Flue Gas Desulfurization FGD Market Technology Outlook


• Wet Flue Gas Desulfurization (FGD)


• Dry Flue Gas Desulfurization (FGD)


• Semi-Dry Flue Gas Desulfurization (FGD)

• Flue Gas Desulfurization FGD Market Application Outlook


• Coal-fired Power Plants


• Gas-fired Power Plants


• Industrial Boilers


• Cement Plants


• Steel Plants

• Flue Gas Desulfurization FGD Market Absorbent Type Outlook


• Limestone


• Lime


• Sodium Carbonate


• Calcium Hydroxide


• Magnesium Oxide

• Flue Gas Desulfurization FGD Market Regional Outlook


• North America


• Europe


• South America


• Asia Pacific

Middle East and Africa