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    Hydroelectric Power Generation Market

    ID: MRFR/E&P/26724-HCR
    128 Pages
    Priya Nagrale
    September 2025

    Hydroelectric Power Generation Market Research Report: By Generation Capacity (Less than 10 MW, 10 MW to 100 MW, 100 MW to 1,000 MW, Over 1,000 MW), By Project Type (Greenfield Projects, Revamping Projects, Upgrading Projects), By Turbine Type (Kaplan, Francis, Pelton, Bulb), By Control System (Automated Control Systems, Semi-Automated Control Systems, Manually Operated Control Systems), By End-Use Industry (Residential, Commercial, Industrial, Utilities) and By Regional (North America, Europe, South America, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Af...

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    Hydroelectric Power Generation Market Research Report — Global Forecast till 2034 Infographic
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    Hydroelectric Power Generation Market Summary

    The global hydroelectric power generation market is projected to experience substantial growth from 397.1 USD billion in 2024 to 828.9 USD billion by 2035.

    Key Market Trends & Highlights

    Hydroelectric Power Generation Key Trends and Highlights

    • The market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 6.92 percent from 2025 to 2035.
    • By 2035, the market valuation is anticipated to reach 828.9 USD billion, indicating robust expansion.
    • In 2024, the market is valued at 397.1 USD billion, reflecting a strong foundation for future growth.
    • Growing adoption of renewable energy sources due to increasing environmental concerns is a major market driver.

    Market Size & Forecast

    2024 Market Size 397.1 (USD Billion)
    2035 Market Size 828.9 (USD Billion)
    CAGR (2025-2035) 6.92%

    Major Players

    GE Renewable Energy, Voith Hydro, PowerChina, IHI Corporation, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd., Siemens AG, China Three Gorges Corporation, China Datang Corporation, EDP Energias de Portugal, S.A., Andritz Hydro, Hitachi, Ltd., Statkraft AS, Alstom SA, Toshiba Energy Systems Solutions Corporation

    Hydroelectric Power Generation Market Trends

    The market presents huge opportunities in venturing into developing countries, growing cutting-edge technologies, and even moving towards hybrid systems of renewable energy and hydroelectric plants. Current trends incorporate that of optimizing plant processes through the adoption of AI and machine learning as a means of increasing productivity and lowering operation costs. Lastly, the application of hydroelectric power is now being incorporated into smart grids and distributed generation systems.

    The global shift towards renewable energy sources, particularly hydroelectric power, indicates a growing recognition of its potential to provide sustainable and reliable electricity while mitigating climate change impacts.

    U.S. Department of Energy

    Hydroelectric Power Generation Market Drivers

    Rising Energy Demand

    The Global Hydroelectric Power Generation Market Industry is experiencing a surge in energy demand, driven by population growth and urbanization. As countries strive to meet their energy needs sustainably, hydroelectric power emerges as a viable solution. In 2024, the market is valued at approximately 397.1 USD Billion, reflecting the increasing reliance on renewable energy sources. This trend is expected to continue, with projections indicating a market value of 828.9 USD Billion by 2035. The compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.92% from 2025 to 2035 underscores the growing importance of hydroelectric power in the global energy landscape.

    Market Growth Projections

    The Global Hydroelectric Power Generation Market Industry is poised for substantial growth, with projections indicating a market value of 828.9 USD Billion by 2035. This growth trajectory reflects the increasing adoption of hydroelectric power as a primary energy source. The anticipated compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.92% from 2025 to 2035 suggests a robust expansion driven by various factors, including technological advancements, government support, and rising energy demands. As countries worldwide prioritize renewable energy, hydroelectric power is likely to play a central role in achieving energy security and sustainability goals.

    Technological Advancements

    Technological advancements are significantly influencing the Global Hydroelectric Power Generation Market Industry. Innovations in turbine design, automation, and grid integration enhance the efficiency and reliability of hydroelectric plants. For example, the development of small modular hydropower systems allows for decentralized energy generation, making it feasible for remote areas. These advancements not only improve energy output but also reduce operational costs, making hydroelectric power more competitive against fossil fuels. As technology continues to evolve, it is anticipated that the market will witness increased investment and expansion, further solidifying hydroelectric power's role in the global energy mix.

    Investment in Infrastructure

    Investment in infrastructure is a crucial driver for the Global Hydroelectric Power Generation Market Industry. Governments and private entities are increasingly allocating funds to develop and upgrade hydroelectric facilities. This investment not only enhances existing infrastructure but also facilitates the construction of new projects, thereby expanding capacity. In many regions, aging dams are being retrofitted with modern technology to improve efficiency and output. Such initiatives are essential for meeting the rising energy demands and ensuring the reliability of power supply. The ongoing infrastructure investments are expected to contribute significantly to the market's growth trajectory in the coming years.

    Government Policies and Incentives

    Government policies play a pivotal role in shaping the Global Hydroelectric Power Generation Market Industry. Many nations are implementing favorable regulations and incentives to promote renewable energy projects. For instance, subsidies, tax breaks, and streamlined permitting processes encourage investment in hydroelectric facilities. These initiatives not only enhance energy security but also contribute to environmental sustainability. As governments commit to reducing carbon emissions, hydroelectric power is increasingly recognized as a key component of national energy strategies. This supportive regulatory environment is likely to drive further growth in the market, aligning with global efforts to transition towards cleaner energy sources.

    Environmental Concerns and Sustainability

    Environmental concerns are increasingly driving the Global Hydroelectric Power Generation Market Industry. As climate change becomes a pressing issue, there is a growing recognition of the need for sustainable energy solutions. Hydroelectric power, being a renewable resource, offers a low-carbon alternative to fossil fuels. This shift towards sustainability is reflected in global energy policies that prioritize renewable sources. The market's projected growth, with a CAGR of 6.92% from 2025 to 2035, indicates a strong commitment to integrating hydroelectric power into national energy portfolios. Additionally, the focus on minimizing ecological impacts further enhances the appeal of hydroelectric projects.

    Market Segment Insights

    Hydroelectric Power Generation Market Generation Capacity Insights

    Hydroelectric Power Generation Market Generation Capacity Insights

    Segmentation by generation capacity renders a clear vision of the dynamics in the Global Hydroelectric Power Generation Market. It provides a separate outlook for each of the distinct types: less than 10 MW, 10 MW to 100 MW, 100 MW to 1,000 MW, and over 1,000 MW. Small hydropower plants of less than 10 MW are prevalent and actively utilized in emerging market economies, particularly in remote and off-grid locations. They account for a substantial part of the market and give an opportunity to provide electricity to the most isolated rural communities.

    This type supports the generation of energy in a decentralized way and is estimated to grow substantially in the following years because of the growing demand for renewable energy in remote, off-grid regions. Medium hydro power plants from 10 MW to 100 MW in generation capacity are the mid-segment of the market. They are typically built on smaller rivers and provide a more balanced approach to the cost of electricity generated.

    The main factor raising this segment’s share is the growing support of the government and other stakeholders who actively promote the development of renewable energy technology in the long run of the forecast.

    Large hydropower plants of between 100 MW and 1,000 MW are prevalent and account for a substantial share of the market. They are built on large rivers and encourage the highest demand, as they have the uppermost capacity for electricity generation. The factor contributing to the prevalence of electricity generation through hydropower might be the growing demand in the lucrative developed and industrialized markets. The premium segment is hydropower plants of over 1,000 MW in generation capacity. They are mainly built on major rivers or dams and have the highest capacity for electricity generation.

    Hydroelectric Power Generation Market Project Type Insights

    Hydroelectric Power Generation Market Project Type Insights

    The Global Hydroelectric Power Generation Market segmentation by project type includes Greenfield Projects, Revamping Projects, and Upgrading Projects. Among these, Greenfield Projects held the largest revenue share in 2023, owing to the increasing demand for new hydroelectric power plants to meet the growing electricity demand worldwide. Revamping Projects are expected to witness significant growth in the coming years as existing hydroelectric power plants undergo modernization and upgrades to enhance their efficiency and extend their lifespan.

    Upgrading Projects, which involve the installation of new equipment or technologies to improve the performance of existing hydroelectric power plants, are also expected to contribute to the growth of this segment.

    Hydroelectric Power Generation Market Turbine Type Insights

    Hydroelectric Power Generation Market Turbine Type Insights

    The Global Hydroelectric Power Generation Market is segmented by turbine type into Kaplan, Francis, Pelton, and Bulb. Among these, the Kaplan turbine segment held the largest market share in 2023, accounting for over 45% of the global market. The Francis turbine segment is expected to witness the fastest growth over the forecast period, owing to its high efficiency and adaptability to a wide range of water flows and heads. 

    The Pelton turbine segment is expected to hold a significant market share, owing to its suitability for high-head applications, while the Bulb turbine segment is expected to witness moderate growth due to its specific design for low-head applications. The Global Hydroelectric Power Generation Market is driven by factors such as increasing demand for renewable energy sources, government initiatives to promote clean energy, and technological advancements that improve turbine efficiency.

    Hydroelectric Power Generation Market Control System Insights

    Hydroelectric Power Generation Market Control System Insights

    The Global Hydroelectric Power Generation Market segmentation by Control System includes Automated Control Systems, Semi-Automated Control Systems, and Manually Operated Control Systems. Automated Control Systems held the largest revenue share in 2023, owing to the increasing demand for efficient and reliable control systems in hydroelectric power plants. Semi-automated control Systems are expected to witness significant growth in the coming years due to their ability to provide a balance between automation and manual control. Manually Operated Control Systems are expected to account for a small share of the market due to their limited capabilities and high operating costs.

    Hydroelectric Power Generation Market End-Use Industry Insights

    Hydroelectric Power Generation Market End-Use Industry Insights

    The end-use industry segment of the Global Hydroelectric Power Generation Market is categorized into residential, commercial, industrial, and utilities. Among these, the industrial sector is anticipated to dominate the market in the coming years, owing to the rising demand for electricity from industries such as manufacturing, mining, and construction. The commercial sector is also expected to witness significant growth due to the increasing number of commercial establishments and the growing adoption of energy-efficient technologies. 

    The residential sector is projected to have a steady growth rate, driven by the increasing population and the rising demand for electricity in households. The utilities sector is expected to play a crucial role in the market, as it is responsible for the generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity to end-users. This growth is attributed to the increasing demand for renewable energy sources, government initiatives to promote hydroelectric power generation and technological advancements in the industry.

    Get more detailed insights about Hydroelectric Power Generation Market Research Report — Global Forecast till 2034

    Regional Insights

    North America, Europe, APAC, South America, and MEA are the primary regions for the Global Hydroelectric Power Generation Market. Asia-Pacific region is dominating the Global Hydroelectric Power Generation Market owing to the rising energy demand and increasing urbanization. China is leading the global hydroelectric power market due to its supportive government policies and the presence of abundant water resources. Europe is following with a 25.3% share in the global hydroelectric power market, driven by the increasing adoption of renewable energy sources and supportive government regulations.

    Additionally, the region has a number of mature markets, such as Norway, Spain, and France. The Global Hydroelectric Power Generation Market in the North American region accounted for over 15% of the global market share. The US and Canada are the major countries in the North American region that drives the growth of the regional market. South America is expected to witness a significant growth rate during the forecast period due to increasing investment in renewable energy projects. Brazil is the leading market in the region, with the largest hydroelectric power plants in the world.

    The Middle East and Africa region is expected to have a moderate growth rate due to increasing population and economic development in the region. Saudi Arabia and Egypt are the major countries in the region that drive the growth of the regional market.

    Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, Market Research Future Database and Analyst Review

    Key Players and Competitive Insights

    Major players in the Hydroelectric Power Generation Market industry are constantly investing in research and development to improve the efficiency and reduce the cost of their products. Leading Hydroelectric Power Generation Market players are also focusing on expanding their global presence through acquisitions and partnerships. Hydroelectric Power Generation Market development is being driven by the increasing demand for renewable energy sources and the growing awareness of the environmental benefits of hydropower. 

    The Hydroelectric Power Generation Market Competitive Landscape is expected to remain highly competitive in the coming years.GE Renewable Energy is a leading provider of hydroelectric power generation equipment and services. The company has a global presence and offers a wide range of products and services, including turbines, generators, and control systems. GE Renewable Energy is committed to innovation and is constantly investing in research and development to improve the efficiency and reduce the cost of its products. 

    The company is also focused on expanding its global presence through acquisitions and partnerships. GE Renewable Energy's strong financial performance and commitment to innovation make it a leading player in the Hydroelectric Power Generation Market. Voith Hydro is another leading provider of hydroelectric power generation equipment and services. The company has a global presence and offers a wide range of products and services, including turbines, generators, and control systems. 

    Voith Hydro is committed to innovation and is constantly investing in research and development to improve the efficiency and reduce the cost of its products. The company is also focused on expanding its global presence through acquisitions and partnerships. Voith Hydro's strong financial performance and commitment to innovation make it a leading player in the Hydroelectric Power Generation Market.

    Key Companies in the Hydroelectric Power Generation Market market include

    Industry Developments

    The global Hydroelectric Power Generation Market is anticipated to grow from USD 424.54 billion in 2025 to USD 775.29 billion by 2034, exhibiting a CAGR of 6.92% during the forecast period. The increasing demand for renewable energy sources to combat climate change, coupled with government initiatives promoting hydropower projects, is expected to drive market growth. 

    Key market players are focusing on developing innovative technologies to enhance efficiency and reduce environmental impact. For instance, in May 2023, GE Renewable Energy introduced its new hydroelectric turbine, the Francis 117, designed to maximize efficiency and minimize environmental footprint. Additionally, the rising adoption of digitalization and smart grid technologies is expected to create new opportunities for growth in the coming years. 

    Future Outlook

    Hydroelectric Power Generation Market Future Outlook

    The Hydroelectric Power Generation Market is poised for growth at a 6.92% CAGR from 2024 to 2035, driven by renewable energy policies, technological advancements, and increasing energy demands.

    New opportunities lie in:

    • Invest in smart grid technologies to enhance energy distribution efficiency.
    • Develop small-scale hydro projects in underserved regions to meet local energy needs.
    • Leverage AI for predictive maintenance to optimize operational efficiency and reduce costs.

    By 2035, the Hydroelectric Power Generation Market is expected to achieve substantial growth and technological advancements.

    Market Segmentation

    Hydroelectric Power Generation Market Regional Outlook

    • North America
    • Europe
    • South America
    • Asia Pacific
    • Middle East and Africa

    Hydroelectric Power Generation Market Project Type Outlook

    • Greenfield Projects
    • Revamping Projects
    • Upgrading Projects

    Hydroelectric Power Generation Market Turbine Type Outlook

    • Kaplan
    • Francis
    • Pelton
    • Bulb

    Hydroelectric Power Generation Market Control System Outlook

    • Automated Control Systems
    • Semi-Automated Control Systems
    • Manually Operated Control Systems

    Hydroelectric Power Generation Market End-Use Industry Outlook

    • Residential
    • Commercial
    • Industrial
    • Utilities

    Hydroelectric Power Generation Market Generation Capacity Outlook

    • Less than 10 MW
    • 10 MW to 100 MW
    • 100 MW to 1,000 MW
    • Over 1,000 MW

    Report Scope

    Report Attribute/Metric Details
    Market Size 2024  397.07 (USD Billion)
    Market Size 2025  424.54 (USD Billion)
    Market Size 2034  775.29 (USD Billion)
    Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR)  6.92% (2025 - 2034)
    Report Coverage Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends
    Base Year 2024
    Market Forecast Period 2025 - 2034
    Historical Data 2019 - 2023
    Market Forecast Units USD Billion
    Key Companies Profiled PowerChina, IHI Corporation, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd., Siemens AG, China Three Gorges Corporation, China Datang Corporation, Voith, EDP Energias de Portugal, S.A., Andritz Hydro, Hitachi, Ltd., Statkraft AS, Alstom SA, General Electric Company, Toshiba Energy Systems Solutions Corporation, GE Renewable Energy
    Segments Covered Generation Capacity, Project Type, Turbine Type, Control System, End-Use Industry, Regional
    Key Market Opportunities 1 Growing demand for renewable energy sources2 Government incentives and subsidies3 Technological advancements4 Increasing hydropower project investments5 Environmental concerns
    Key Market Dynamics Increased renewable energy adoption Technological advancements Growing population amp urbanization Fluctuating fossil fuel prices Government incentives
    Countries Covered North America, Europe, APAC, South America, MEA

    FAQs

    What is the market size of the Global Hydroelectric Power Generation Market?

    The Global Hydroelectric Power Generation Market is expected to reach USD 775.29 billion by 2034, exhibiting a CAGR of 6.92% from 2025 to 2034.

    Which region is expected to dominate the Global Hydroelectric Power Generation Market?

    Asia-Pacific is expected to dominate the Global Hydroelectric Power Generation Market, accounting for the largest market share due to the presence of abundant hydropower resources.

    What are the key growth drivers of the Global Hydroelectric Power Generation Market?

    Increasing demand for renewable energy, government initiatives to promote clean energy, and technological advancements are driving the growth of the Global Hydroelectric Power Generation Market.

    What are the major applications of hydroelectric power?

    Hydroelectric power is primarily used for electricity generation, providing a reliable and sustainable source of energy

    Who are the key competitors in the Global Hydroelectric Power Generation Market?

    Major players in the Global Hydroelectric Power Generation Market include companies such as China Three Gorges Corporation, GE Renewable Energy, and Voith.

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