Waste Heat To Power Market
By Technology;
SRC, ORC and KalinaBy End Use;
Petroleum Refining, Cement, Heavy Metal, Chemical, Paper, Food & Beverages, Glass and OthersBy Geography;
North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa and Latin America - Report Timeline (2021 - 2031)Introduction
Global Waste Heat To Power Market (USD Million), 2021 - 2031
In the year 2024, the Global Waste Heat To Power Market was valued at USD 21,250.23 million. The size of this market is expected to increase to USD 63,017.83 million by the year 2031, while growing at a Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 16.8%.
Waste Heat To Power Market
*Market size in USD million
CAGR 16.8 %
| Study Period | 2025 - 2031 |
|---|---|
| Base Year | 2024 |
| CAGR (%) | 16.8 % |
| Market Size (2024) | USD 21,250.23 Million |
| Market Size (2031) | USD 63,017.83 Million |
| Market Concentration | Low |
| Report Pages | 317 |
Major Players
- IHI Corporation
- AMEC Foster Wheeler Ltd.
- Cochran Ltd.
- Forbes Marshall Private Limited
- Mitsubishi Hitachi Power Systems, Ltd.
- Siemens AG
- AC Boilers Spa
- Rentech Boiler Systems Inc.
- Thermax Limited
- Viessmann Limited
- Bosch Thermotechnology
- Walchandnagar Industries Limited (WIL)
- General Electric
- Ormat Technologies
- Exergy SPA
- Drr Group.
Market Concentration
Consolidated - Market dominated by 1 - 5 major players
Waste Heat To Power Market
Fragmented - Highly competitive market without dominant players
The global waste heat to power market is witnessing a surge in interest and investment as the world increasingly seeks sustainable energy solutions. Waste heat, generated as a byproduct across various industrial processes, represents a significant untapped resource for power generation. With growing concerns over climate change and the need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, harnessing waste heat presents a compelling opportunity to simultaneously address environmental challenges and meet energy demands.
One of the key drivers propelling the growth of the waste heat to power market is the increasing adoption of stringent environmental regulations by governments worldwide. These regulations aim to curb emissions and promote the use of renewable energy sources, creating a favorable environment for waste heat recovery systems. Additionally, rising energy costs and the need for energy-efficient solutions are incentivizing industries to explore waste heat recovery technologies to offset their energy expenses and improve their bottom line.
Technological advancements and innovations in waste heat recovery systems are expanding the potential applications and efficiency of these technologies. From organic Rankine cycle (ORC) systems to thermoelectric generators, there is a diverse range of technologies available for converting waste heat into usable electricity. Furthermore, ongoing research and development efforts are focused on enhancing the efficiency and scalability of these systems, making them increasingly attractive to a wide range of industries.
Waste Heat To Power Market Key Takeaways
- Global market expansion is evident, with projections indicating significant growth in the coming years. This trend reflects the increasing adoption of waste heat recovery technologies across various industries.
- Technological advancements are enhancing the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of waste heat to power systems. Innovations such as Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) and Kalina cycle technologies are leading the way in this sector.
- Industrial applications remain the primary focus, with sectors like cement, steel, and chemical industries being major contributors to the market. These industries are investing in waste heat recovery to improve energy efficiency and reduce operational costs.
- Government incentives and regulatory support are playing a crucial role in market growth. Policies promoting energy efficiency and carbon footprint reduction are encouraging industries to adopt waste heat recovery solutions.
- Emerging economies are becoming key players in the market, driven by rapid industrialization and the need for sustainable energy solutions. Countries in Asia-Pacific and Latin America are witnessing increased adoption of waste heat recovery technologies.
- Environmental benefits are significant, with waste heat recovery contributing to reduced greenhouse gas emissions and lower energy consumption. This aligns with global sustainability goals and climate change mitigation efforts.
- Future prospects are promising, with continuous research and development efforts aimed at improving system efficiency and expanding applications. The market is expected to witness further innovations and increased investments in the coming years.
Waste Heat To Power Market Recent Developments
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In February 2024, GE Power announced a groundbreaking advancement in waste heat to power technology, unveiling a new system capable of converting waste heat into electricity with exceptional efficiency. This innovation marks a significant step forward in improving energy recovery and promoting sustainable power generation.
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In December 2022, Mitsubishi Hitachi Power Systems collaborated with a leading energy company to develop cutting-edge waste heat to power solutions. The partnership aimed to significantly reduce emissions and enhance overall energy efficiency, reinforcing the industry's shift toward sustainable energy technologies.
Waste Heat To Power Market Segment Analysis
In this report, the Waste Heat To Power Market has been segmented by Technology, End Use and Geography. The segmentation framework clarifies where value pools emerge as industries convert waste heat into usable electricity to lower energy costs and decarbonize operations. It highlights the interplay of capital intensity, temperature ranges, and policy incentives that collectively shape technology selection, vertical adoption, and regional rollouts. The following sections discuss each axis in depth to support strategy, partnership, and expansion decisions.
Waste Heat To Power Market, Segmentation by Technology
The market is segmented by Technology into SRC, ORC, and Kalina. Each pathway targets specific heat-source temperatures, efficiency profiles, and project economics, enabling tailored deployments across industrial settings. Vendors differentiate through working-fluid optimization, modularity, and balance-of-plant integration, while end users prioritize payback, uptime, and O&M simplicity. As regulations tighten and carbon pricing expands, technology fit to low-, medium-, and high-grade heat will determine pipeline conversion rates and geographic momentum.
SRC
Steam Rankine Cycle (SRC) systems are typically suited to high-temperature sources and larger scales where thermal-to-power efficiency and mature supply chains drive bankability. They benefit facilities with continuous heat availability, robust water/steam handling capabilities, and space for boilers, turbomachinery, and condensing equipment. Strategic value accrues in integrated plants—such as refineries and cement kilns—where SRC can be paired with process heat management to stabilize loads, reduce grid draw, and support emissions compliance targets.
ORC
Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) solutions are optimized for low- to medium-grade heat and modular deployments, using organic working fluids to achieve efficient expansion at lower temperatures. ORC vendors focus on package designs, skid-based installations, and rapid commissioning to lower downtime and project risk. Adoption is reinforced by predictable O&M, compatibility with variable heat sources, and the ability to monetize energy savings without extensive plant retrofits, positioning ORC as a keystone for diversified industrial decarbonization roadmaps.
Kalina
The Kalina Cycle leverages a water-ammonia mixture to enhance thermal match and improve performance across broader temperature glides, creating potential efficiency gains versus single-component cycles. While requiring specialized process control and materials compatibility considerations, Kalina projects target sites where heat-source variability or mid-temperature ranges limit other options. Growth prospects hinge on reference plants, EPC partnerships, and clarity on lifecycle economics, especially in regions pursuing aggressive industrial energy-efficiency programs.
Waste Heat To Power Market, Segmentation by End Use
By End Use, the market addresses energy-intensive sectors where process streams and kiln/furnace operations generate recoverable heat. Decision criteria include temperature profiles, duty cycles, space constraints, and interconnection requirements, often resolved through EPC-led audits and performance-guarantee structures. As corporate sustainability targets expand, WHP projects support Scope 1&2 reductions, enhance energy resilience, and unlock financing via ESCO models and green lending, catalyzing broader vertical adoption.
Petroleum Refining
Refineries operate high-temperature process heaters and FCC units, yielding consistent waste heat suitable for SRC or advanced cycles. WHP helps reduce energy intensity, bolster grid stability, and meet emissions standards under tightening regulations. Integration success depends on turnaround scheduling, HSE protocols, and alignment with ongoing heat integration initiatives across complex sites.
Cement
The cement industry features steady, high-grade heat from preheaters and clinker coolers, creating strong WHP fit—often via ORC or SRC depending on temperatures. Operators target kiln line retrofits, modular units, and predictive O&M to maximize uptime and returns. Projects align with decarbonization roadmaps and can complement waste heat for drying strategies to optimize overall plant efficiency.
Heavy Metal
Metals & smelting processes generate substantial off-gas heat suitable for WHP, with project feasibility linked to temperature stability and dust/particulate management. Solutions emphasize robust heat exchangers, filtration, and corrosion-resistant materials to ensure lifecycle performance. As power prices fluctuate, WHP provides cost hedging and supports ESG disclosures in energy-intensive operations.
Chemical
Chemical plants exhibit diverse heat profiles across reactors, distillation, and thermal oxidizers, favoring flexible cycles and controls integration. Project success hinges on HAZOP-aligned design, materials compatibility, and maintaining product quality while capturing energy. WHP can stabilize utility loads and reduce steam/power purchases, improving margins and sustainability metrics.
Paper
Pulp & paper facilities provide medium-grade heat from dryers and recovery boilers, where ORC packages and heat-integration strategies are common. Operators prioritize low-disruption installs, water management, and predictable maintenance to ensure reliability. WHP contributes to cost control, supports renewable energy targets, and enhances competitiveness in a margin-sensitive sector.
Food & Beverages
In Food & Beverages, dispersed process heat from ovens, pasteurization, and drying invites modular WHP with compact footprints and sanitary design considerations. Systems emphasize low-noise operation and automation to fit stringent production environments. Benefits include energy savings, improved emissions profiles, and alignment with brand sustainability commitments.
Glass
Glass manufacturing furnaces operate at high temperatures, creating favorable conditions for efficient power recovery. Engineering priorities include materials durability, fouling control, and load-following to accommodate batch dynamics. WHP helps temper energy volatility and supports compliance with industrial emissions frameworks.
Others
The Others category spans additional industries—such as ceramics, municipal waste incineration, and data centers with concentrated thermal streams—where site-specific assessments determine viability. Vendors leverage audits, pilot units, and performance guarantees to unlock latent opportunities. As energy-efficiency incentives broaden, these niches can scale through replicable, standardized packages.
Waste Heat To Power Market, Segmentation by Geography
In this report, the Waste Heat To Power Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions: North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America.
Regions and Countries Analyzed in this Report
North America
North America benefits from mature industrial bases, supportive efficiency incentives, and advanced EPC ecosystems that streamline WHP deployment. Project bankability is enhanced by stable power markets and corporate net-zero commitments, driving pipelines in refining, cement, and metals. Vendors focus on retrofit-friendly designs, performance guarantees, and digital O&M to maximize availability and returns.
Europe
Europe exhibits strong momentum under stringent emissions regulations and high energy prices, accelerating WHP as part of broader energy-efficiency programs. Industrial clusters in cement, chemicals, and glass prioritize waste heat valorization to meet decarbonization targets. Partnerships between technology providers, utilities, and financial institutions help scale standardized solutions across member states.
Asia Pacific
Asia Pacific combines rapid industrial growth with expanding policy frameworks that encourage on-site generation and energy savings. Large-scale facilities in China, India, and Southeast Asia create diverse opportunities across SRC, ORC, and Kalina deployments. Market leaders emphasize local manufacturing, service networks, and financing models to address cost sensitivity and accelerate adoption.
Middle East & Africa
Middle East & Africa leverages heat-intensive sectors such as refining, petrochemicals, and metals, coupled with increasing interest in efficiency and grid diversification. WHP projects align with industrial modernization and sustainability agendas, especially where captive generation can offset peak demand. Success depends on reference plants, robust EPC capability, and long-term service frameworks suited to harsh operating environments.
Latin America
Latin America presents selective opportunities in cement, metals, and chemicals, where WHP enhances competitiveness and mitigates energy volatility. Policy-driven efficiency programs and access to green finance can accelerate deployments, particularly for modular ORC packages. Market entry strategies emphasize local partners, supply-chain reliability, and aftermarket support to ensure lifecycle performance.
Waste Heat To Power Market Forces
This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Waste Heat To Power Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis.
Comprehensive Market Impact Matrix
This matrix outlines how core market forces Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities affect key business dimensions including Growth, Competition, Customer Behavior, Regulation and Innovation.
| Market Forces ↓ / Impact Areas → | Market Growth Rate | Competitive Landscape | Customer Behavior | Regulatory Influence | Innovation Potential |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Drivers | High impact (e.g., tech adoption, rising demand) | Encourages new entrants and fosters expansion | Increases usage and enhances demand elasticity | Often aligns with progressive policy trends | Fuels R&D initiatives and product development |
| Restraints | Slows growth (e.g., high costs, supply chain issues) | Raises entry barriers and may drive market consolidation | Deters consumption due to friction or low awareness | Introduces compliance hurdles and regulatory risks | Limits innovation appetite and risk tolerance |
| Opportunities | Unlocks new segments or untapped geographies | Creates white space for innovation and M&A | Opens new use cases and shifts consumer preferences | Policy shifts may offer strategic advantages | Sparks disruptive innovation and strategic alliances |
Drivers, Restraints and Opportunity Analysis
Drivers
- Increasing industrialization
- Stringent environmental regulations
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Technological advancements : The waste heat to power market has experienced significant technological advancements in recent years, revolutionizing the way waste heat is utilized and converted into usable energy. One of the key developments is the advancement in thermoelectric materials and systems, which have become more efficient in capturing and converting waste heat into electricity. These materials exhibit enhanced properties such as higher conversion efficiency and durability, making them increasingly viable for various industrial applications.
The integration of advanced control systems and automation technologies has enhanced the overall efficiency and reliability of waste heat to power systems. Smart monitoring and optimization algorithms enable real-time adjustments, maximizing energy output while minimizing operational costs and downtime. This integration also allows for better integration with existing industrial processes, creating synergies that further improve overall energy efficiency.
Another notable technological advancement is the development of Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) systems, which are highly efficient in converting low-temperature waste heat into electricity. ORC systems utilize organic fluids with lower boiling points, enabling them to operate effectively at lower temperatures compared to traditional steam-based systems. This flexibility makes ORC systems suitable for a wider range of industrial processes, unlocking new opportunities for waste heat recovery.
Restraints
- High initial investment
- Technical challenges
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Limited awareness : The waste heat to power market has tremendous potential but suffers from limited awareness among both consumers and businesses. Waste heat, produced as a byproduct of various industrial processes, is often overlooked as a valuable resource. This lack of awareness stems from several factors, including a general lack of understanding about the concept of waste heat recovery and its potential benefits. Many industries are focused on their primary production processes and may not prioritize exploring options for harnessing waste heat.
There is a lack of visibility and promotion surrounding waste heat to power technologies. Compared to other renewable energy sources like solar and wind power, waste heat to power solutions often receive less attention in media coverage and public discourse. This lack of promotion further contributes to the limited awareness of waste heat recovery options among businesses and consumers. The complexity and perceived barriers associated with implementing waste heat to power systems may deter potential adopters.
Businesses may perceive the technology as too costly or technically challenging to integrate into their operations. Without proper education and awareness campaigns, these misconceptions persist, hindering the widespread adoption of waste heat to power solutions.
Opportunities
- Growing focus
- Expansion of end-user
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Government incentives : The waste heat to power market has seen significant growth in recent years, driven by increasing awareness of energy efficiency and sustainability. Governments around the world have recognized the potential of waste heat recovery as a means to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve energy security. In response, many governments have implemented various incentives and policies to encourage the adoption of waste heat to power technologies.
One of the most common incentives is financial support in the form of grants, subsidies, or tax credits for businesses and industries that invest in waste heat recovery systems. These financial incentives help offset the initial capital costs associated with implementing waste heat to power technologies, making them more economically viable for companies. Additionally, some governments offer preferential tariffs or feed-in tariffs for electricity generated from waste heat, providing further financial incentives for adoption. In addition to financial incentives, many governments have introduced regulatory measures to promote waste heat recovery. For example, some countries have implemented energy efficiency standards that require industries to assess and optimize their energy usage, including the utilization of waste heat.
Others have established emissions reduction targets, with waste heat recovery being recognized as a key strategy for achieving these goals. By incorporating waste heat recovery into their regulatory frameworks, governments can create a supportive environment for investment in waste heat to power technologies.
Waste Heat To Power Market Competitive Landscape Analysis
Waste Heat To Power Market is witnessing steady growth as major players intensify their focus on efficiency, sustainability, and industrial integration. The sector shows rising competition with over 40% of companies adopting new strategies to strengthen their market presence. Increasing collaboration, mergers, and technology-driven partnerships highlight the competitive nature of this energy recovery domain.
Market Structure and Concentration
The market reflects a moderate concentration with leading firms accounting for nearly 55% of the share. A mix of established leaders and emerging innovators are driving growth across industries. Companies are adopting integrated strategies to balance high capital requirements with scalable solutions, ensuring steady expansion while managing sectoral competition effectively.
Brand and Channel Strategies
Prominent manufacturers are enhancing their brand equity by emphasizing energy efficiency and industrial sustainability. Around 47% of firms prioritize diversified channels to reach end-users in manufacturing, petrochemicals, and power sectors. Partnerships with equipment suppliers and digital service providers are central to growth strategies, ensuring robust distribution and wider adoption.
Innovation Drivers and Technological Advancements
With nearly 60% of companies investing in R&D, technological advancements remain pivotal. Innovations in turbines, organic Rankine cycles, and data-driven monitoring systems are fueling expansion. Strong emphasis on innovation ensures alignment with efficiency mandates, while collaborative projects push the boundaries of cost reduction and sustainable energy recovery applications.
Regional Momentum and Expansion
Regional concentration shows that more than 52% of investments are driven by Asia-Pacific, supported by industrial expansion and government initiatives. Europe follows with strong emphasis on decarbonization strategies. Partnerships and collaboration among regional players support infrastructure development, creating significant growth momentum across emerging and mature economies alike.
Future Outlook
The future of this sector indicates robust growth, with nearly 58% of executives emphasizing sustainability as a core business driver. Companies will focus on innovation, long-term partnerships, and diversified strategies to strengthen resilience. The future outlook highlights a transition toward digitalized, efficient systems that will sustain competitiveness and enable industrial-scale expansion in coming years.
Key players in Waste Heat To Power Market include :
- Mitsubishi Heavy Industries
- General Electric
- Siemens Energy
- ABB
- Ormat Technologies
- Thermax
- Dürr Group
- Exergy International
- IHI Corporation
- AC Boiler
- Forbes Marshall
- Cochran Ltd.
- Rentech Boiler Systems
- Walchandnagar Industries
- Climeon
In this report, the profile of each market player provides following information:
- Market Share Analysis
- Company Overview and Product Portfolio
- Key Developments
- Financial Overview
- Strategies
- Company SWOT Analysis
- Introduction
- Research Objectives and Assumptions
- Research Methodology
- Abbreviations
- Market Definition & Study Scope
- Executive Summary
- Market Snapshot, By Technology
- Market Snapshot, By End Use
- Market Snapshot, By Region
- Waste Heat To Power Market Dynamics
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Drivers
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Increasing industrialization
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Stringent environmental regulations
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Technological advancements
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- Restraints
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High initial investment
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Technical challenges
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Limited awareness
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- Opportunities
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Growing focus
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Expansion of end-user
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Government incentives
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- Drivers
- PEST Analysis
- Political Analysis
- Economic Analysis
- Social Analysis
- Technological Analysis
- Porter's Analysis
- Bargaining Power of Suppliers
- Bargaining Power of Buyers
- Threat of Substitutes
- Threat of New Entrants
- Competitive Rivalry
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Market Segmentation
- Waste Heat To Power Market, By Technology, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- SRC
- ORC
- Kalina
- Waste Heat To Power Market, By End Use, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Petroleum Refining
- Cement
- Heavy Metal
- Chemical
- Paper
- Food & Beverages
- Glass
- Others
- Waste Heat To Power Market, By Geography, 2023 - 2033 (USD Million)
- North America
- United States
- Canada
- Europe
- Germany
- United Kingdom
- France
- Italy
- Spain
- Nordic
- Benelux
- Rest of Europe
- Asia Pacific
- Japan
- China
- India
- Australia & New Zealand
- South Korea
- ASEAN (Association of South East Asian Countries)
- Rest of Asia Pacific
- Middle East & Africa
- GCC
- Israel
- South Africa
- Rest of Middle East & Africa
- Latin America
- Brazil
- Mexico
- Argentina
- Rest of Latin America
- North America
- Waste Heat To Power Market, By Technology, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Competitive Landscape
- Company Profiles
- Mitsubishi Heavy Industries
- General Electric
- Siemens Energy
- ABB
- Ormat Technologies
- Thermax
- Dürr Group
- Exergy International
- IHI Corporation
- AC Boiler
- Forbes Marshall
- Cochran Ltd.
- Rentech Boiler Systems
- Walchandnagar Industries
- Climeon
- Company Profiles
- Analyst Views
- Future Outlook of the Market

