Europe Small Hydropower Market Market Strategies for the Next Decade: 2026-2034

Europe Small Hydropower Market by Production Analysis, by Consumption Analysis, by Import Market Analysis (Value & Volume), by Export Market Analysis (Value & Volume), by Price Trend Analysis, by Europe (United Kingdom, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, Belgium, Sweden, Norway, Poland, Denmark) Forecast 2026-2034

Jan 9 2026

Base Year: 2025

234 Pages

Key Insights

The European small hydropower market, focusing on installations under 10 MW, presents a significant investment opportunity driven by the region's commitment to renewable energy and energy security. The market is projected to experience substantial expansion, with an estimated Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 3.3%. Key growth drivers include the urgent need to reduce carbon emissions and meet ambitious EU climate targets, making small hydropower, with its lower environmental impact, an attractive sustainable energy source. Technological advancements in turbine efficiency and cost reduction, coupled with favorable government incentives and streamlined permitting processes, further bolster market growth. The market is segmented by installation type (greenfield/brownfield), turbine type (Kaplan, Francis, Pelton, Cross-flow), and size, offering diverse investment opportunities. Leading players like Voith, Siemens Energy, and Andritz are actively contributing to market competitiveness and innovation.

Despite favorable prospects, the market faces challenges. High initial capital investment can be a barrier for smaller developers, and geographical limitations – the availability of suitable sites with adequate water flow and head – can affect project viability. While regulatory processes are improving, they can still cause project delays. Nevertheless, the long-term outlook for the European small hydropower market remains positive, supported by robust policy frameworks and growing global demand for renewable energy solutions, driven by increasing climate change awareness and the transition to sustainable energy systems. The market's stability is reinforced by established industry leaders who continuously adapt to new technologies and evolving market demands.

Europe Small Hydropower Market Market Size and Forecast (2024-2030) — Europe Small Hydropower Market Company Market Share

Europe Small Hydropower Market Analysis: Size, Trends, and Forecast (2019-2033)

This comprehensive report delivers an in-depth analysis of the European small hydropower market, detailing market size, key trends, leading companies, and future growth projections. The analysis covers the period from 2019 to 2033, with 2025 designated as the base and estimated year. The projected market size is estimated at 2.86 billion. This report is essential for investors, manufacturers, policymakers, and industry professionals seeking a thorough understanding of this dynamic sector.

Europe Small Hydropower Market Composition & Trends

The European small hydropower market exhibits a moderately concentrated landscape, with key players like Gilbert Gilkes & Gordon Ltd, Iberdrola SA, Kolektor Group, Voith GmbH & Co KGaA, Electricite de France SA (EDF), PJSC RusHydro, Siemens Energy AG, GE Renewable Energy, and Andritz AG holding significant market share. However, the market also accommodates numerous smaller, regional players. Market share distribution is estimated at xx% for the top 5 players in 2025, reflecting ongoing consolidation and competitive activity. Innovation is driven by advancements in turbine technology, grid integration solutions, and digital monitoring systems. Regulatory landscapes vary across European nations, influencing project development and investment. Substitute energy sources such as solar and wind power exert competitive pressure, while M&A activity, with an estimated value of xx Million in deals in 2024, signifies industry consolidation and expansion.

Market Concentration: Moderately concentrated, with top 5 players holding xx% market share (2025).
Innovation Catalysts: Advancements in turbine technology, grid integration, and digital monitoring.
Regulatory Landscape: Varies across European countries, impacting project feasibility.
Substitute Products: Solar, wind, and other renewable energy sources.
End-User Profiles: Primarily utility companies, independent power producers (IPPs), and industrial consumers.
M&A Activity: Estimated xx Million in deal value in 2024, reflecting industry consolidation.

Europe Small Hydropower Market Industry Evolution

The European small hydropower market has witnessed consistent growth over the historical period (2019-2024), driven by increasing energy demand, supportive government policies promoting renewable energy, and technological advancements leading to improved efficiency and cost-effectiveness. The market is projected to experience a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of xx% during the forecast period (2025-2033), reaching a market value of xx Million by 2033. Technological advancements, particularly in turbine design and digital control systems, have enhanced energy conversion efficiency and reduced operational costs. Consumer demand for sustainable and environmentally friendly energy sources is a significant driver, further fueled by stringent emission reduction targets set by the European Union. This trend is exemplified by increasing investments in small hydropower projects, particularly in regions with abundant water resources and favorable regulatory environments. The shift towards decentralized energy generation and improved grid integration capabilities are further contributing to market expansion. The adoption rate of small hydropower technologies is steadily increasing, with a xx% increase in new installations projected between 2025 and 2033.

Leading Regions, Countries, or Segments in Europe Small Hydropower Market

While precise market share data for specific regions and segments requires further in-depth analysis and would be included in the complete report, preliminary assessments suggest that countries with abundant water resources and supportive regulatory frameworks are leading the market. The specific dominant region, country, or segment will be detailed in the full report. For preliminary considerations, factors driving dominance vary across segments:

Key Drivers by Segment:

Installation (Greenfield): High potential for new projects in areas with untapped hydropower potential. Government incentives and supportive policies are crucial drivers.
Installation (Brownfield): Rehabilitation and modernization of existing facilities offer opportunities for increased capacity and efficiency.
Turbine Type (Kaplan, Francis, Pelton, Cross-flow): The choice of turbine type depends on the specific characteristics of the site and water flow. All types contribute to the market, with market share details provided in the full report.
Size (Small <10MW, Medium 10-50MW, Large >50MW): The small hydropower segment (under 10MW) is currently expected to hold the largest market share due to its lower capital investment costs and quicker implementation times.

Dominance Factors:

The full report will contain a detailed analysis of the leading segments and regions, including a geographic breakdown and a discussion of the specific regulatory and economic factors driving dominance in each sector.

Europe Small Hydropower Market Product Innovations

Recent innovations in small hydropower technology focus on improving efficiency, reducing environmental impact, and enhancing grid integration capabilities. Advancements include the development of more efficient turbine designs, such as axial flow and cross-flow turbines, along with the implementation of smart grid technologies for optimized energy dispatch and improved system reliability. Unique selling propositions often center around reduced environmental footprint, improved energy yield, and enhanced grid integration features, offering competitive advantages to manufacturers.

Propelling Factors for Europe Small Hydropower Market Growth

Several factors are driving the growth of the European small hydropower market. Firstly, the increasing demand for renewable energy sources to meet stringent emission reduction targets and decarbonize the energy sector is a key driver. Secondly, supportive government policies and financial incentives, including subsidies and tax breaks, encourage investment in renewable energy projects. Thirdly, technological advancements, particularly in turbine design and grid integration, are leading to improved efficiency and reduced costs, making small hydropower projects more economically viable.

Obstacles in the Europe Small Hydropower Market

The European small hydropower market faces several challenges. Regulatory hurdles, including complex permitting processes and environmental impact assessments, can delay project development. Supply chain disruptions and material cost increases can impact project costs and profitability. Furthermore, competition from other renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, presents a challenge. The cumulative impact of these factors can lead to project delays and reduced overall market growth. Quantifiable impacts will be detailed in the full report.

Future Opportunities in Europe Small Hydropower Market

Future opportunities in the European small hydropower market include the expansion into new geographical areas with untapped hydropower potential, the development of innovative technologies for enhanced efficiency and grid integration, and the growth of hybrid energy systems combining small hydropower with other renewable energy sources. Emerging markets for small-scale hydropower solutions, including micro-hydro systems for remote communities, represent significant growth potential.

Major Players in the Europe Small Hydropower Market Ecosystem

Gilbert Gilkes & Gordon Ltd
Iberdrola SA
Kolektor Group
Voith GmbH & Co KGaA
Electricite de France SA (EDF)
PJSC RusHydro
Siemens Energy AG
GE Renewable Energy
Andritz AG

Key Developments in Europe Small Hydropower Market Industry

September 2022: Voltalia announces plans for a 2.9MW run-of-river hydroelectric power station in French Guiana, highlighting the continued development of small hydropower projects.
November 2021: The European Investment Bank (EIB) funds EUR49 Million to Iniziative Bresciane S.p.A. for the construction of 12 small run-of-river hydroelectric plants in Tuscany, Italy, demonstrating significant investment in the sector.

Strategic Europe Small Hydropower Market Forecast

The European small hydropower market is poised for continued growth, driven by the increasing demand for renewable energy, supportive government policies, and technological advancements. Future opportunities lie in exploiting untapped hydropower resources, improving grid integration capabilities, and developing innovative technologies to enhance efficiency and reduce costs. The market is expected to witness significant expansion in the coming years, reaching a projected market value of xx Million by 2033.

Europe Small Hydropower Market Segmentation

1. Production Analysis
2. Consumption Analysis
3. Import Market Analysis (Value & Volume)
4. Export Market Analysis (Value & Volume)
5. Price Trend Analysis

Europe Small Hydropower Market Segmentation By Geography

1. Europe
- 1.1. United Kingdom
- 1.2. Germany
- 1.3. France
- 1.4. Italy
- 1.5. Spain
- 1.6. Netherlands
- 1.7. Belgium
- 1.8. Sweden
- 1.9. Norway
- 1.10. Poland
- 1.11. Denmark

Europe Small Hydropower Market Market Share by Region - Global Geographic Distribution — Europe Small Hydropower Market Regional Market Share

Geographic Coverage of Europe Small Hydropower Market

Higher Coverage

Lower Coverage

No Coverage

Europe Small Hydropower Market REPORT HIGHLIGHTS

Aspects	Details
Study Period	2020-2034
Base Year	2025
Estimated Year	2026
Forecast Period	2026-2034
Historical Period	2020-2025
Growth Rate	CAGR of 3.3% from 2020-2034
Segmentation	By Production Analysis By Consumption Analysis By Import Market Analysis (Value & Volume) By Export Market Analysis (Value & Volume) By Price Trend Analysis By Geography Europe United Kingdom Germany France Italy Spain Netherlands Belgium Sweden Norway Poland Denmark

1. Introduction
- 1.1. Research Scope
- 1.2. Market Segmentation
- 1.3. Research Methodology
- 1.4. Definitions and Assumptions
2. Executive Summary
- 2.1. Introduction
3. Market Dynamics
- 3.1. Introduction
- - 3.2. Market Drivers
  - - 3.2.1. 4.; Growing Emphasis on Renewable Energy Integration4.; Significant Hydropower Potential
- - 3.3. Market Restrains
  - - 3.3.1. 4.; Competition From Other Energy Storage Technologies
- - 3.4. Market Trends
  - - 3.4.1. 1-10 MW Capacity Segment to Dominate the Market
4. Market Factor Analysis
- 4.1. Porters Five Forces
- 4.2. Supply/Value Chain
- 4.3. PESTEL analysis
- 4.4. Market Entropy
- 4.5. Patent/Trademark Analysis
5. Europe Small Hydropower Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2020-2032
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Production Analysis
- 5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Consumption Analysis
- 5.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Import Market Analysis (Value & Volume)
- 5.4. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Export Market Analysis (Value & Volume)
- 5.5. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Price Trend Analysis
- 5.6. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Region
  - 5.6.1. Europe
6. Competitive Analysis
- 6.1. Market Share Analysis 2025
- - 6.2. Company Profiles
  - - 6.2.1 Gilbert Gilkes & Gordon Ltd
      6.2.1.1. Overview
      6.2.1.2. Products
      6.2.1.3. SWOT Analysis
      6.2.1.4. Recent Developments
      6.2.1.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
    - 6.2.2 Iberdrola SA
      6.2.2.1. Overview
      6.2.2.2. Products
      6.2.2.3. SWOT Analysis
      6.2.2.4. Recent Developments
      6.2.2.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
    - 6.2.3 Kolektor Group*List Not Exhaustive
      6.2.3.1. Overview
      6.2.3.2. Products
      6.2.3.3. SWOT Analysis
      6.2.3.4. Recent Developments
      6.2.3.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
    - 6.2.4 Voith GmbH & Co KGaA
      6.2.4.1. Overview
      6.2.4.2. Products
      6.2.4.3. SWOT Analysis
      6.2.4.4. Recent Developments
      6.2.4.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
    - 6.2.5 Electricite de France SA (EDF)
      6.2.5.1. Overview
      6.2.5.2. Products
      6.2.5.3. SWOT Analysis
      6.2.5.4. Recent Developments
      6.2.5.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
    - 6.2.6 PJSC RusHydro
      6.2.6.1. Overview
      6.2.6.2. Products
      6.2.6.3. SWOT Analysis
      6.2.6.4. Recent Developments
      6.2.6.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
    - 6.2.7 Siemens Energy AG
      6.2.7.1. Overview
      6.2.7.2. Products
      6.2.7.3. SWOT Analysis
      6.2.7.4. Recent Developments
      6.2.7.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
    - 6.2.8 GE Renewable Energy
      6.2.8.1. Overview
      6.2.8.2. Products
      6.2.8.3. SWOT Analysis
      6.2.8.4. Recent Developments
      6.2.8.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
    - 6.2.9 Andritz AG
      6.2.9.1. Overview
      6.2.9.2. Products
      6.2.9.3. SWOT Analysis
      6.2.9.4. Recent Developments
      6.2.9.5. Financials (Based on Availability)

List of Figures

Figure 1: Europe Small Hydropower Market Revenue Breakdown (billion, %) by Product 2025 & 2033
Figure 2: Europe Small Hydropower Market Share (%) by Company 2025

List of Tables

Table 1: Europe Small Hydropower Market Revenue billion Forecast, by Production Analysis 2020 & 2033
Table 2: Europe Small Hydropower Market Volume gigawatt Forecast, by Production Analysis 2020 & 2033
Table 3: Europe Small Hydropower Market Revenue billion Forecast, by Consumption Analysis 2020 & 2033
Table 4: Europe Small Hydropower Market Volume gigawatt Forecast, by Consumption Analysis 2020 & 2033
Table 5: Europe Small Hydropower Market Revenue billion Forecast, by Import Market Analysis (Value & Volume) 2020 & 2033
Table 6: Europe Small Hydropower Market Volume gigawatt Forecast, by Import Market Analysis (Value & Volume) 2020 & 2033
Table 7: Europe Small Hydropower Market Revenue billion Forecast, by Export Market Analysis (Value & Volume) 2020 & 2033
Table 8: Europe Small Hydropower Market Volume gigawatt Forecast, by Export Market Analysis (Value & Volume) 2020 & 2033
Table 9: Europe Small Hydropower Market Revenue billion Forecast, by Price Trend Analysis 2020 & 2033
Table 10: Europe Small Hydropower Market Volume gigawatt Forecast, by Price Trend Analysis 2020 & 2033
Table 11: Europe Small Hydropower Market Revenue billion Forecast, by Region 2020 & 2033
Table 12: Europe Small Hydropower Market Volume gigawatt Forecast, by Region 2020 & 2033
Table 13: Europe Small Hydropower Market Revenue billion Forecast, by Production Analysis 2020 & 2033
Table 14: Europe Small Hydropower Market Volume gigawatt Forecast, by Production Analysis 2020 & 2033
Table 15: Europe Small Hydropower Market Revenue billion Forecast, by Consumption Analysis 2020 & 2033
Table 16: Europe Small Hydropower Market Volume gigawatt Forecast, by Consumption Analysis 2020 & 2033
Table 17: Europe Small Hydropower Market Revenue billion Forecast, by Import Market Analysis (Value & Volume) 2020 & 2033
Table 18: Europe Small Hydropower Market Volume gigawatt Forecast, by Import Market Analysis (Value & Volume) 2020 & 2033
Table 19: Europe Small Hydropower Market Revenue billion Forecast, by Export Market Analysis (Value & Volume) 2020 & 2033
Table 20: Europe Small Hydropower Market Volume gigawatt Forecast, by Export Market Analysis (Value & Volume) 2020 & 2033
Table 21: Europe Small Hydropower Market Revenue billion Forecast, by Price Trend Analysis 2020 & 2033
Table 22: Europe Small Hydropower Market Volume gigawatt Forecast, by Price Trend Analysis 2020 & 2033
Table 23: Europe Small Hydropower Market Revenue billion Forecast, by Country 2020 & 2033
Table 24: Europe Small Hydropower Market Volume gigawatt Forecast, by Country 2020 & 2033
Table 25: United Kingdom Europe Small Hydropower Market Revenue (billion) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
Table 26: United Kingdom Europe Small Hydropower Market Volume (gigawatt) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
Table 27: Germany Europe Small Hydropower Market Revenue (billion) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
Table 28: Germany Europe Small Hydropower Market Volume (gigawatt) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
Table 29: France Europe Small Hydropower Market Revenue (billion) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
Table 30: France Europe Small Hydropower Market Volume (gigawatt) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
Table 31: Italy Europe Small Hydropower Market Revenue (billion) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
Table 32: Italy Europe Small Hydropower Market Volume (gigawatt) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
Table 33: Spain Europe Small Hydropower Market Revenue (billion) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
Table 34: Spain Europe Small Hydropower Market Volume (gigawatt) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
Table 35: Netherlands Europe Small Hydropower Market Revenue (billion) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
Table 36: Netherlands Europe Small Hydropower Market Volume (gigawatt) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
Table 37: Belgium Europe Small Hydropower Market Revenue (billion) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
Table 38: Belgium Europe Small Hydropower Market Volume (gigawatt) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
Table 39: Sweden Europe Small Hydropower Market Revenue (billion) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
Table 40: Sweden Europe Small Hydropower Market Volume (gigawatt) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
Table 41: Norway Europe Small Hydropower Market Revenue (billion) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
Table 42: Norway Europe Small Hydropower Market Volume (gigawatt) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
Table 43: Poland Europe Small Hydropower Market Revenue (billion) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
Table 44: Poland Europe Small Hydropower Market Volume (gigawatt) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
Table 45: Denmark Europe Small Hydropower Market Revenue (billion) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033
Table 46: Denmark Europe Small Hydropower Market Volume (gigawatt) Forecast, by Application 2020 & 2033

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the Europe Small Hydropower Market?

The projected CAGR is approximately 3.3%.

2. Which companies are prominent players in the Europe Small Hydropower Market?

Key companies in the market include Gilbert Gilkes & Gordon Ltd, Iberdrola SA, Kolektor Group*List Not Exhaustive, Voith GmbH & Co KGaA, Electricite de France SA (EDF), PJSC RusHydro, Siemens Energy AG, GE Renewable Energy, Andritz AG.

3. What are the main segments of the Europe Small Hydropower Market?

The market segments include Production Analysis, Consumption Analysis, Import Market Analysis (Value & Volume), Export Market Analysis (Value & Volume), Price Trend Analysis.

4. Can you provide details about the market size?

The market size is estimated to be USD 2.86 billion as of 2022.

5. What are some drivers contributing to market growth?

4.; Growing Emphasis on Renewable Energy Integration4.; Significant Hydropower Potential.

6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?

1-10 MW Capacity Segment to Dominate the Market.

7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?

4.; Competition From Other Energy Storage Technologies.

8. Can you provide examples of recent developments in the market?

In September 2022, Voltalia announced plans to develop a 2.9MW run-of-river hydroelectric power station in the commune of Maripa-Soula in French Guiana. The company signed a 30-year contract with EDF SEI for the sale of electricity, and the contract due to start with the commissioning of the project, scheduled for 2026. The French Energy Regulation Commission (CRE) has authorized the deal.

9. What pricing options are available for accessing the report?

Pricing options include single-user, multi-user, and enterprise licenses priced at USD 4750, USD 5250, and USD 8750 respectively.

10. Is the market size provided in terms of value or volume?

The market size is provided in terms of value, measured in billion and volume, measured in gigawatt.

11. Are there any specific market keywords associated with the report?

Yes, the market keyword associated with the report is "Europe Small Hydropower Market," which aids in identifying and referencing the specific market segment covered.

12. How do I determine which pricing option suits my needs best?

The pricing options vary based on user requirements and access needs. Individual users may opt for single-user licenses, while businesses requiring broader access may choose multi-user or enterprise licenses for cost-effective access to the report.

13. Are there any additional resources or data provided in the Europe Small Hydropower Market report?

While the report offers comprehensive insights, it's advisable to review the specific contents or supplementary materials provided to ascertain if additional resources or data are available.

14. How can I stay updated on further developments or reports in the Europe Small Hydropower Market?

To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the Europe Small Hydropower Market, consider subscribing to industry newsletters, following relevant companies and organizations, or regularly checking reputable industry news sources and publications.

Methodology

Step 1 - Identification of Relevant Samples Size from Population Database

Step 2 - Approaches for Defining Global Market Size (Value, Volume* & Price*)

Top-down and bottom-up approaches are used to validate the global market size and estimate the market size for manufactures, regional segments, product, and application.

Note*: In applicable scenarios

Step 3 - Data Sources

Primary Research

Web Analytics
Survey Reports
Research Institute
Latest Research Reports
Opinion Leaders

Secondary Research

Annual Reports
White Paper
Latest Press Release
Industry Association
Paid Database
Investor Presentations

Step 4 - Data Triangulation

Involves using different sources of information in order to increase the validity of a study

These sources are likely to be stakeholders in a program - participants, other researchers, program staff, other community members, and so on.

Then we put all data in single framework & apply various statistical tools to find out the dynamic on the market.

During the analysis stage, feedback from the stakeholder groups would be compared to determine areas of agreement as well as areas of divergence

Additionally, after gathering mixed and scattered data from a wide range of sources, data is triangulated and correlated to come up with estimated figures which are further validated through primary mediums or industry experts, opinion leaders.

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