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Study Period | 2019 - 2030 |
Base Year For Estimation | 2024 |
Forecast Data Period | 2025 - 2030 |
Market Size (2025) | USD 21.99 Billion |
Market Size (2030) | USD 28.80 Billion |
CAGR (2025 - 2030) | 5.54 % |
Market Concentration | Medium |
Major Players![]() *Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order |
Europe Waste-to-Energy Market Analysis
The Europe Waste-to-Energy Market size is estimated at USD 21.99 billion in 2025, and is expected to reach USD 28.80 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 5.54% during the forecast period (2025-2030).
The European waste-to-energy sector is undergoing significant transformation driven by technological advancement and infrastructure modernization. The industry has witnessed substantial investment in new facilities and upgrades of existing plants, particularly in Western European nations. Germany, a leading market player, currently operates 98 waste-to-energy plants with a combined capacity of 26 million tons of non-recyclable waste, demonstrating the region's commitment to sustainable waste management. The integration of advanced technologies like waste gasification and waste pyrolysis processes has enhanced operational efficiency, with modern facilities achieving optimum efficiency rates of up to 80% through the cogeneration of thermal power and electricity generation.
Infrastructure development across Europe continues to accelerate, with several countries expanding their waste-to-energy capabilities through strategic investments. In July 2021, Sunoko Company announced plans to invest over EUR 9 million in constructing a 2.4 MW biogas power plant at its Vrbas sugar mill in Serbia, highlighting the industry's growth trajectory. The United Kingdom has emerged as a significant market player with over 100 operational waste-to-energy plants, collectively generating approximately 6 TWh of electricity, equivalent to 2% of the country's total power output. These facilities also provide about 1,400 GWh of heat, showcasing the dual benefits of modern waste-to-energy infrastructure.
Environmental policies and circular economy initiatives are reshaping the industry landscape, with many European nations implementing stringent regulations to reduce landfill usage and promote energy recovery from waste. The implementation of the European Union's Waste Framework Directive has catalyzed investments in advanced waste treatment technology. In February 2021, the Kent County Council in the United Kingdom launched an ambitious food waste recycling program, aiming to convert 45,000 tons of annually collected household food waste into biogas through anaerobic digestion, demonstrating the growing focus on specialized waste-to-energy solutions.
Technological innovation continues to drive market evolution, with emerging solutions offering improved efficiency and reduced environmental impact. The industry is witnessing increased adoption of Dendro Liquid Energy (DLE) technology, which promises four times greater efficiency in electricity generation while eliminating emission discharge and effluence problems at plant sites. The sector is also experiencing a shift toward specialized waste treatment facilities, as evidenced by Italy's 37 urban waste incineration plants, primarily concentrated in the country's northern regions, which are being upgraded with advanced pollution control and energy recovery systems to meet stringent environmental standards while maximizing energy output.
Europe Waste-to-Energy Market Trends
Positive Impact of Brexit on the UK WtE Market
The United Kingdom's exit from the European Union has created a significant opportunity for the waste-to-energy market, as the country is now legally free to amend its energy policy without conforming to EU standards. This independence has led to substantial government support, exemplified by the announcement of over GBP 76 million in funding for 13 waste management projects, including six waste-to-energy plants that will collectively utilize over 150 GWh of waste heat recovery from incinerators annually. The government has further demonstrated its commitment through the planned EUR 270 million Green Heat Network Fund (GHNF) scheme, set to launch in 2022, which aims to drive the establishment of energy-from-waste incinerators while ensuring high efficiencies in heat production and reduction in CO2 emissions.
The post-Brexit regulatory environment has particularly benefited the British WtE sector through the omission of the WtE sector from the market created when it left the European greenhouse gas emissions trading system. This strategic decision, coupled with the British Department for Environment, Food, and Rural Affairs' Waste Management Plan for England (published in January 2021), has established a clear pathway for increasing the number of WtE plants that can achieve R1 recovery status and operate in combined heat and energy mode. The focus on domestic waste management solutions has become increasingly important as the UK has historically been a significant exporter of refuse-derived fuel (RDF), exporting approximately 3.5 million metric tons of trash annually to Europe.
Technological Advancements in WtE Technologies
The waste-to-energy market is experiencing significant technological evolution, particularly in thermal waste treatment technologies, which continue to dominate the European market. Modern WtE facilities are achieving unprecedented efficiency levels, with plants utilizing cogeneration of thermal power (heating and cooling) together with electricity generation reaching optimum efficiency rates of up to 80%. These advancements are complemented by innovative emissions control technologies, as demonstrated by recent developments in waste incineration and gasification processes that have led to reduced environmental impact and improved operational efficiency.
The integration of WtE technologies with other innovative solutions is driving market growth, as evidenced by recent developments in 2023. A notable example is Maire Tecnimont S.p.A.'s NextChem project in Italy, which was awarded a feasibility study for integrating carbon capture and sustainable methanol synthesis at the ETA Manfredonia waste-to-energy plant in Puglia. Additionally, the industry is witnessing innovative combinations of renewable energy sources, as demonstrated by the Geiselbullach waste-to-energy plant in Germany, which in May 2023 initiated plans to incorporate geothermal resources into its existing district heating network. These technological advancements are supported by growing installed capacity, with the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) reporting that the total municipal waste energy installed capacity in Europe reached 5,134 MW in 2022, representing a 2.37% growth from the previous year.
Segment Analysis: Technology
Thermal Segment in Europe Waste-to-Energy Market
The thermal segment dominates the Europe waste-to-energy market, accounting for approximately 73% of the total market share in 2024. This significant market position is primarily attributed to the widespread adoption of thermal waste treatment technology, which remains the most well-established WtE technology for Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) processing. The thermal process involves treating waste to generate heat, which is then used to generate energy or produce fuel oil or syngas from organic and inorganic wastes through various methods including combustion, waste pyrolysis, thermal gasification, or plasma arc gasification. Plants utilizing cogeneration of thermal power along with electricity generation can achieve optimum efficiency levels of up to 80%, making it particularly attractive for large-scale waste management operations. The segment's dominance is further reinforced by continuous technological advancements in emission control systems and improved operational efficiencies of thermal treatment facilities across Europe.
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Biological Segment in Europe Waste-to-Energy Market
The biological segment is emerging as the fastest-growing segment in the Europe waste-to-energy market for the period 2024-2029. This growth is driven by increasing adoption of anaerobic digestion technologies and the rising focus on managing food and agricultural waste through biological methods. The segment's expansion is supported by the growing commercial viability of new technologies and their increasing market penetration. Multiple large-scale biological waste-to-energy plants under construction across Europe are contributing to this growth trajectory. The segment's appeal is enhanced by its ability to efficiently manage food and agricultural waste while producing clean energy, with innovations in microorganism-based waste processing leading to improved conversion efficiencies. The trend is further supported by various European countries' initiatives to promote biological waste treatment methods as part of their sustainable waste management strategies.
Remaining Segments in Technology
The physical segment in the Europe waste-to-energy market focuses on improving the physical and chemical properties of solid waste through processes like refuse-derived fuel (RDF) production. This segment plays a crucial role in preparing waste materials for energy recovery by converting combustible fractions into high-energy fuel pellets. The process involves initial drying to reduce moisture levels, followed by mechanical separation of incombustible materials, before compacting the waste into fuel pellets or RDF. While this segment represents a smaller portion of the market, it remains significant in the overall waste valorization value chain, particularly in regions where direct thermal waste treatment may not be feasible or desirable.
Europe Waste-to-Energy Market Geography Segment Analysis
Waste-to-Energy Market in Germany
Germany stands as the cornerstone of Europe's waste-to-energy market, commanding approximately 20% of the total market share in 2024. The country's leadership position is built upon its robust infrastructure of waste management facilities, with over 98 waste-to-energy plants operating with a capacity of about 26 million tons of non-recyclable waste. The nation's commitment to environmental sustainability is reflected in its comprehensive waste management framework, which prioritizes energy recovery over landfilling. The success of waste-to-energy operations in Germany can be attributed to the presence of over 11,000 waste management companies operating more than 15,500 waste management facilities. The country's approach to waste management is particularly noteworthy for its integration of advanced technologies and strict emission control standards, making it a model for other European nations to follow. The German waste-to-energy sector is further strengthened by its emphasis on combined heat and power generation, which significantly improves overall energy efficiency. The market is supported by strong government policies and regulations, including the Waste Wood Ordinance and the Renewable Energy Act, which provide a stable framework for continued growth and innovation in the sector.
Waste-to-Energy Market in Italy
Italy's waste-to-energy market is experiencing remarkable growth, with a projected CAGR of approximately 8% from 2024 to 2029. The country's transformation in the waste-to-energy sector is driven by significant changes in waste management strategies, particularly focusing on the use of waste with high calorific value, especially Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF). The Italian market demonstrates sophisticated capabilities in handling various waste streams, including organic fraction treatment, plastic sorting waste, paper recycling residues, and end-of-life vehicle waste. The country's approach to waste-to-energy is particularly notable for its regional diversity, with different areas adopting varied technological solutions based on local needs and resources. The sector's development is guided by the European Union's Waste Framework Directive, which has been effectively integrated into national legislation through the Consolidated Environmental Act. The market's evolution is further supported by the presence of 37 urban waste incineration plants, strategically distributed across the country, with a concentration in the industrialized northern regions. The combination of technological advancement, regulatory support, and increasing environmental awareness continues to drive the sector's growth and innovation.
Waste-to-Energy Market in United Kingdom
The United Kingdom has established itself as a pivotal player in Europe's waste-to-energy landscape, with its market characterized by continuous technological advancement and infrastructure expansion. The country's approach to waste management has evolved significantly, moving away from traditional landfilling towards more sustainable energy recovery solutions. The British waste-to-energy sector benefits from a robust network of operational facilities, with over 53 waste-to-energy power plants contributing significantly to the nation's energy mix. The market's strength is underpinned by the government's commitment to reducing landfill dependency, evidenced by the new Waste Management Plan for England and substantial funding initiatives for waste-to-energy projects. The sector's development is further supported by strategic partnerships between public and private entities, fostering innovation and efficiency improvements in waste processing technologies. The UK's waste-to-energy infrastructure continues to expand through new project developments and facility upgrades, demonstrating the country's long-term commitment to sustainable waste management solutions.
Waste-to-Energy Market in France
France maintains a significant presence in the European waste-to-energy sector, distinguished by its extensive network of approximately 120 waste incineration plants, the highest number in the European region. The country's approach to waste-to-energy is characterized by a strong focus on electricity generation efficiency and environmental protection. The French market benefits from the presence of industry leaders like Veolia, which brings extensive expertise and innovative solutions to the sector. The nation's waste-to-energy infrastructure is continuously evolving, with increasing emphasis on implementing advanced technologies for improved energy recovery and reduced environmental impact. The market is shaped by progressive environmental policies, including the law on Energy Transition for Green Growth, which promotes the circular economy concept. France's commitment to sustainable waste management is reflected in its ongoing investments in facility modernization and the adoption of new technologies for enhanced energy recovery efficiency. The country's waste-to-energy sector continues to evolve, balancing environmental protection with energy generation needs.
Waste-to-Energy Market in Other Countries
Beyond the major markets, several other European countries demonstrate significant potential and unique approaches to waste-to-energy development. Countries like Sweden, Denmark, and the Netherlands have established themselves as innovative leaders in the sector, each bringing distinct strengths to the market. Sweden's approach is particularly noteworthy for its near-zero waste-to-landfill achievement, while Denmark leads in terms of per capita waste processing capacity. The Netherlands has developed sophisticated infrastructure for waste recycling and energy recovery. Countries in Southern and Eastern Europe are increasingly investing in waste-to-energy facilities as part of their solid waste management modernization efforts. Spain and Portugal are developing their waste-to-energy capabilities through new facility construction and technology adoption. These diverse markets collectively contribute to Europe's position as a global leader in waste-to-energy technology and implementation, each adding unique perspectives and solutions to the sector's development.
Europe Waste-to-Energy Industry Overview
Top Companies in Europe Waste-to-Energy Market
The European waste-to-energy market features prominent players like Veolia Environment SA, A2A SPA, MVV Energie AG, Martin GmbH, and Suez SA leading the industry through various strategic initiatives. Companies are increasingly focusing on technological advancement and innovation, particularly in areas like gasification technology and advanced pollution control systems. Operational excellence is being achieved through the digitalization of processes and smart management systems, while strategic partnerships and joint ventures are becoming commonplace to enhance market presence. Geographic expansion strategies are evident through cross-border acquisitions and new facility developments, particularly in emerging markets within Eastern Europe. Companies are also emphasizing sustainability and circular economy principles in their operations, investing in research and development for more environmentally friendly waste treatment technologies solutions.
Consolidated Market with Strong Local Presence
The European waste-to-energy market exhibits a moderately consolidated structure, characterized by a mix of large multinational corporations and specialized regional players. Major conglomerates like Veolia and Suez dominate through their integrated waste management solutions, while specialized players like Martin GmbH maintain strong positions through technological expertise. The market demonstrates a high barrier to entry due to significant capital requirements and stringent regulatory compliance needs, leading to established players maintaining their market positions through operational excellence and technological superiority.
The industry has witnessed significant merger and acquisition activity, exemplified by the landmark merger between Veolia and Suez, which has reshaped the competitive landscape. Local municipalities and regional operators play crucial roles in market dynamics, often partnering with larger companies through public-private partnerships. Companies are increasingly adopting people-first approaches in their operations, focusing on community benefits and stakeholder engagement while developing new facilities, which has become a key differentiator in winning new contracts and maintaining market position.
Innovation and Sustainability Drive Future Success
Success in the European waste-to-energy market increasingly depends on companies' ability to innovate while maintaining environmental compliance and operational efficiency. Market players must focus on developing advanced technologies that reduce emissions and improve energy recovery rates, while simultaneously managing operational costs. The ability to secure long-term waste supply contracts and maintain strong relationships with municipalities and industrial clients has become crucial, as has the capability to navigate complex regulatory environments and public sentiment regarding waste management facilities.
Future market share gains will largely depend on companies' ability to integrate sustainable practices and circular economy principles into their operations. Players must invest in research and development to develop more efficient waste processing technologies while maintaining strong community relations and environmental standards. The increasing focus on renewable waste energy and environmental regulations presents both challenges and opportunities, with successful companies needing to balance technological innovation with stakeholder management and regulatory compliance. New entrants can gain ground by focusing on niche markets or specialized technologies, while established players must continue to innovate and optimize their existing operations to maintain their market positions.
Europe Waste-to-Energy Market Leaders
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Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd
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Martin GmbH
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A2A SpA
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Veolia Environnement SA
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Hitachi Zosen Corp.
- *Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order
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Europe Waste-to-Energy Market News
- September 2022: Fortum announced expanding its UK-based operations and is starting to develop a new WtE plant in Scotland. The market entry is a vital step forward in the company's ambition to transform the WtE sector with its novel Carbon2x concept, which already concluded the first round of pilot testing. The concept aimed to capture emissions from waste incineration and turn them into useful CO2-based, high-quality raw materials. Moreover, the Carbon2x will help reduce the dependence on fossil-based raw materials, improve Europe's self-sufficiency, and decarbonize waste incineration.
- July 2022: The mayor of Rome, to whom the government assigned regional waste management until 2026, announced the construction of an incinerator within the city for all unsorted waste, expected to account for 43% of all waste by 2026 without prior treatment dealing with such by burning it rather treating it as non-recoverable waste.
Europe Waste-to-Energy Market Report - Table of Contents
1. INTRODUCTION
- 1.1 Scope of the Study
- 1.2 Market Definition
- 1.3 Study Assumptions
2. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
3. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
4. MARKET OVERVIEW
- 4.1 Introduction
- 4.2 Market Size and Demand in USD billion, till 2029
- 4.3 Recent Trends and Developments
- 4.4 Government Policies and Regulations
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4.5 Market Dynamics
- 4.5.1 Drivers
- 4.5.1.1 Government Focus on Waste Management
- 4.5.1.2 Decline in Fossil-fuel based Electricity Generation
- 4.5.2 Restraints
- 4.5.2.1 High Price of Incinerators and Decline in Energy Price of Other Renewable Energy Sources
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4.6 Supply Chain Analysis
- 4.6.1 Porter's Five Forces Analysis
- 4.6.2 Bargaining Power of Suppliers
- 4.6.3 Bargaining Power of Consumers
- 4.6.4 Threat of New Entrants
- 4.6.5 Threat of Substitutes Products and Services
- 4.6.6 Intensity of Competitive Rivalry
5. MARKET SEGMENTATION
- 5.1 Thermal
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5.2 Source: https://www.mordorintelligence.com/industry-reports/europe-generator-sets-market
- 5.2.1 Physical
- 5.2.2 Biological
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5.3 Country
- 5.3.1 Germany
- 5.3.2 United Kingdom
- 5.3.3 Italy
- 5.3.4 France
- 5.3.5 Spain
- 5.3.6 Nordic Countries
- 5.3.7 Turkey
- 5.3.8 Russia
- 5.3.9 Rest of Europe
6. COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE
- 6.1 Mergers and Acquisitions, Joint Ventures, Collaborations, and Agreements
- 6.2 Strategies Adopted by Leading Players
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6.3 Company Profiles
- 6.3.1 Hitachi Zosen Corp
- 6.3.2 Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd.
- 6.3.3 Martin GmbH
- 6.3.4 A2A SpA
- 6.3.5 Veolia Environnement SA
- 6.3.6 Suez SA
- 6.3.7 Wheelabrator Technologies
- 6.3.8 STEAG Energy Services GmbH
- *List Not Exhaustive
- 6.4 Market Ranking/Share Analysis
7. MARKET OPPORTUNITIES AND FUTURE TRENDS
- 7.1 Adoption of Advanced and Environmentally Sustainable WTE Techniques such as Gasification for Energy and Anaerobic Digestion
Europe Waste-to-Energy Industry Segmentation
Waste is any substance or unwanted material that results from any human activity or process. Municipal solid waste generation rates are influenced by economic development, the degree of industrialization, public habits, and local climate. As a general trend, the higher the economic development, the higher the amount of municipal solid waste generated. Waste-to-energy is the process of generating energy in the form of electricity and/or heat through the primary treatment of waste or processing of the same into a fuel source. The technology used for this process includes physical, thermal, and biological technologies.
The European waste-to-energy market is segmented by technology and geography. By technology, the market is segmented into physical, thermal, and biological. The report also covers the market size and forecasts for the waste-to-energy market across major countries, such as Germany, the United Kingdom, Italy, France, and the rest of Europe.
For each segment, the market sizing and forecasts have been done based on revenue (USD).
Source: https://www.mordorintelligence.com/industry-reports/europe-generator-sets-market | Physical |
Biological | |
Country | Germany |
United Kingdom | |
Italy | |
France | |
Spain | |
Nordic Countries | |
Turkey | |
Russia | |
Rest of Europe |
Europe Waste-to-Energy Market Research FAQs
How big is the Europe Waste-to-Energy Market?
The Europe Waste-to-Energy Market size is expected to reach USD 21.99 billion in 2025 and grow at a CAGR of 5.54% to reach USD 28.80 billion by 2030.
What is the current Europe Waste-to-Energy Market size?
In 2025, the Europe Waste-to-Energy Market size is expected to reach USD 21.99 billion.
Who are the key players in Europe Waste-to-Energy Market?
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd, Martin GmbH, A2A SpA, Veolia Environnement SA and Hitachi Zosen Corp. are the major companies operating in the Europe Waste-to-Energy Market.
What years does this Europe Waste-to-Energy Market cover, and what was the market size in 2024?
In 2024, the Europe Waste-to-Energy Market size was estimated at USD 20.77 billion. The report covers the Europe Waste-to-Energy Market historical market size for years: 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024. The report also forecasts the Europe Waste-to-Energy Market size for years: 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028, 2029 and 2030.
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Europe Waste-to-Energy Market Research
Mordor Intelligence provides a comprehensive analysis of the WTE and waste to energy sector. We leverage extensive expertise in waste management and renewable energy research. Our detailed report covers a full range of technologies, including biogas production, biomass to energy conversion, and advanced waste treatment technology. It encompasses crucial aspects of solid waste management, such as waste incineration, waste gasification, waste pyrolysis, and thermal waste treatment. The report, available as an easy-to-download PDF, offers in-depth insights into waste valorization methods and energy recovery systems.
Stakeholders across the industry benefit from our thorough examination of industrial waste to energy and municipal waste to energy applications. We also explore emerging trends in waste recycling and bioenergy production. The report details developments in alternative fuel generation, including refuse derived fuel technologies and innovations in waste heat recovery. Our analysis of renewable waste energy solutions and municipal solid waste treatment processes enables decision-makers to optimize their strategic planning. The comprehensive coverage extends to waste to power conversion efficiency and emerging waste treatment technology, providing valuable insights for industry participants seeking to enhance their operational capabilities.