Small Hydropower Market Size, Share, Trends, Industry Analysis Report: By Type (Micro Hydropower and Mini Hydropower), Capacity, Component, and Region (North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East & Africa) – Market Forecast, 2025–2

The global small hydropower market size is expected to reach USD 2,835.51 million by 2034, according to a new study by Polaris Market Research. The report “Small Hydropower Market Size, Share, Trends, Industry Analysis Report: By Type (Micro Hydropower and Mini Hydropower), Capacity, Component, and Region (North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East & Africa) – Market Forecast, 2025–2034” gives a detailed insight into current market dynamics and provides analysis on future market growth.

Small hydropower is a renewable energy source that harnesses the power of flowing water to generate electricity on a smaller scale than large hydropower plants. It is widely recognized for its ability to provide clean, reliable, and cost-effective energy, especially in rural and remote areas. Small hydropower systems have low maintenance costs and long lifespans, making them an attractive option for both private investors and governments seeking to expand energy access while reducing dependence on fossil fuels.

The ability of small hydropower to promote rural electrification is propelling the small hydropower market growth. Many rural areas lack access to centralized electricity grids, making decentralized renewable energy solutions such as small hydropower crucial for electricity generation. Small hydropower plants installed in rural regions provide a steady and reliable source of power for homes, businesses, and industries. This, in turn, enhances economic activities, supports local livelihoods, and improves the overall living standards of the region.

Technological advancements have significantly improved the efficiency and feasibility of small hydropower projects, thereby contributing to the small hydropower market expansion. Innovations in turbine design, automation, and grid integration have made small hydropower more cost-effective and adaptable to various geographical conditions, leading to increased adoption. Additionally, hybrid energy systems that combine small hydropower with other renewable sources, such as solar or wind, enhance the reliability and efficiency of small hydropower, increasing demand.

Small Hydropower Market Report Highlights

In terms of type, the micro hydropower segment dominated the small hydropower market share in 2024 due to the rising demand for decentralized and low-cost renewable energy solutions.

Based on capacity, the upto 1MW segment dominated the market in 2024 due to its versatility, cost-effectiveness, and suitability for decentralized energy systems.

In the global market, Asia Pacific dominated the market in 2024 due to its vast untapped water resources, rapid urbanization, and strong government support for renewable energy.

The Europe small hydropower market is estimated to grow at a rapid pace during the forecast period, owing to its commitment to achieving carbon neutrality and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

Some of the global key market players are ANDRITZ, ATB Riva Calzoni, Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited, CKD Blansko, FLOVEL Energy Private Limited, General Electric, Gilbert Gilkes & Gordon Ltd, Global Hydro, HM Hydro, HNAC Technology, Natel Energy, Siemens Energy, SNC Lavalin Group, TOSHIBA CORPORATION, and Voith GmbH & Co.

Polaris Market Research has segmented the small hydropower market report on the basis of type, capacity, component, and region:

By Type Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2020–2034)

Micro Hydropower

Mini Hydropower

By Capacity Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2020–2034)

Up to 1 MW

10 MW

By Component Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2020–2034)

Turbine

Generator

Electric Infrastructure

Intake Valves and Penstock

Others

By Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2020–2034)

North America

• US
• Canada

• Germany
• France
• UK
• Italy
• Spain
• Netherlands
• Russia
• Rest of Europe

• China
• Japan
• India
• Malaysia
• South Korea
• Indonesia
• Australia
• Vietnam
• Rest of Asia Pacific

• Saudi Arabia
• UAE
• Israel
• South Africa
• Rest of Middle East & Africa

• Mexico
• Brazil
• Argentina
• Rest of Latin America