Global Biomass Power Generation Market Size, Share And Growth Analysis Report By Feedstock (Woody Biomass, Agricultural Residues, Forest Residues, Biogas, Landfill and Sewage Gas, Energy Crops, Industrial and Municipal Waste), By Technology (Combustion, Gasification, Anaerobic Digestion, Pyrolysis), By Fuel (Solid Fuel, Liquid Fuel, Gaseous Fuel), By Region and Companies - Industry Segment Outlook, Market Assessment, Competition Scenario, Trends and Forecast 2025-2034

Report Overview

The Global Biomass Power Generation Market is expected to be worth around USD 210.0 billion by 2034, up from USD 125.3 billion in 2024, and grow at a CAGR of 5.3% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2034.

The Biomass Power Generation is experiencing significant growth, driven by increasing demand for renewable energy sources and a global push toward reducing carbon emissions. Biomass power generation refers to the process of generating electricity through the combustion of organic materials, such as wood pellets, agricultural residues, and waste products. With the growing emphasis on sustainability, biomass has become an important renewable energy source, contributing to reducing the reliance on fossil fuels.

Biomass is renewable organic material that comes from plants and animals. Biomass can be burned directly for heat or converted to liquid and gaseous fuels through various processes. Direct combustion is the most common method for converting biomass to useful energy. All biomass can be burned directly for heating buildings and water, for providing industrial process heat, and for generating electricity in steam turbines.

Renewable energy can play an important role in U.S. energy security and in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Using renewable energy can help to reduce energy imports and fossil fuel use, the largest source of U.S. carbon dioxide emissions. According to projections in the Annual Energy Outlook 2023 Reference case, U.S. renewable energy consumption will continue to increase through 2050.

Biomass was the largest source of total annual U.S. energy consumption until the mid-1800s. In 2023, biomass accounted for about 5% of the U.S.’s total primary energy consumption. Biomass is used for heating and electricity generation and as a transportation fuel. Biomass is an important fuel in many countries, especially in developing countries, for cooking and heating.

Key Takeaways

• The global Biomass Power Generation Market is projected to grow from USD 125.3 billion in 2024 to USD 210.0 billion by 2034, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.3% from 2025 to 2034.
• Woody Biomass held a dominant market position, accounting for over 48.3% of the global biomass power generation market.
• Combustion Technology led the market in 2024, capturing more than 56.3% of the global biomass power generation market.
• Solid fuels, such as wood chips, pellets, and agricultural residues, dominated the market in 2024, holding a 69.4% share.
• The Asia-Pacific (APAC) region was the largest market for biomass power generation in 2024, accounting for approximately 37.5% of the global market, valued at USD 46.9 billion.

By Feedstock

In 2024, Woody Biomass held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 48.3% share of the global biomass power generation market. This form of biomass, derived from wood and wood-based materials such as sawdust, wood chips, and bark, is widely used in power plants due to its high energy content and availability. The consistent demand for woody biomass can be attributed to its significant energy yield and the increasing use of forest residues, which are seen as sustainable sources for biomass power generation.

Throughout 2024, the consumption of woody biomass for energy generation continued to grow, with key markets in North America, Europe, and parts of Asia-Pacific. North America, in particular, saw a steady increase in woody biomass usage, driven by the U.S. and Canada, which have large forestry sectors. Additionally, European countries like the United Kingdom and Sweden have been utilizing wood pellets derived from woody biomass as a primary source for renewable energy production, further reinforcing its market dominance.

By Technology

In 2024, Combustion held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 56.3% share of the global biomass power generation market. Combustion is one of the most widely used technologies for generating energy from biomass. This method involves burning organic materials like wood, agricultural residues, and other biomass feedstocks to produce heat, which is then converted into electricity. The technology’s widespread use can be attributed to its simplicity, efficiency, and the mature infrastructure in place, making it a reliable choice for power generation.

By 2025, combustion technology is expected to continue holding the largest market share in biomass power generation, maintaining its leadership position due to its cost-effectiveness and ability to handle large-scale energy production. As environmental regulations become more stringent, however, there is growing interest in improving combustion efficiency and integrating carbon capture technologies, which may drive further developments in this segment.

By Fuel

In 2024, Solid Fuel held a dominant market position, capturing more than a 69.4% share of the global biomass power generation market. Solid fuels, such as wood chips, pellets, agricultural residues, and other organic matter, are the most commonly used form of biomass for power generation. This is primarily due to the accessibility, cost-effectiveness, and high energy content of solid biomass feedstocks. Solid fuels are widely used in large-scale power plants, where their combustion provides a reliable and efficient source of electricity.

As we look ahead to 2025, solid fuel will likely maintain its dominant position in the biomass power generation market. The need for renewable, sustainable, and cost-efficient energy solutions will continue to drive demand for solid fuels. Furthermore, ongoing technological advancements in combustion and conversion processes will enhance the efficiency and environmental performance of solid biomass power plants, ensuring that solid fuel remains a preferred choice for biomass-based power generation.

Key Market Segments

By Feedstock

• Woody Biomass
• Agricultural Residues
• Forest Residues
• Biogas
• Landfill and Sewage Gas
• Energy Crops
• Industrial & Municipal Waste

By Technology

• Combustion
• Gasification
• Anaerobic Digestion
• Pyrolysis

By Fuel

• Solid Fuel
• Liquid Fuel
• Gaseous Fuel

Drivers

Government Policies and Incentives Driving Biomass Power Growth

One of the most significant driving factors for the growth of biomass power generation is the strong support from government policies and incentives. Governments worldwide are increasingly recognizing the importance of renewable energy sources like biomass in reducing carbon emissions and combating climate change.

These policies often include financial incentives, subsidies, and regulatory support, making biomass power generation more attractive for investors and developers. In the United States, the federal government has also been proactive in supporting biomass energy. The Production Tax Credit (PTC) and the Investment Tax Credit (ITC) have been instrumental in encouraging the development of biomass projects.

According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), biomass provided about 5% of the total U.S. primary energy use in 2022, with wood and wood-derived fuels being the largest contributors. These incentives have not only boosted the biomass sector but also helped rural economies by creating demand for agricultural and forestry residues.

Restraints

High Initial Costs and Financial Barriers

One of the major restraints for the growth of biomass power generation is the high initial costs and financial barriers associated with setting up and operating biomass plants. While biomass is a renewable and sustainable energy source, the upfront investment required for building biomass power facilities can be prohibitively expensive for many developers and communities.

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) estimates that feedstock costs alone can account for 40-60% of the total operating expenses of a biomass plant. These logistical challenges further strain the financial viability of biomass projects, particularly in regions with underdeveloped infrastructure.

Opportunity

Rising Demand for Sustainable Waste Management Solutions

A major growth factor for biomass power generation is its ability to address the growing global challenge of waste management while producing clean energy. As the world grapples with increasing amounts of agricultural, industrial, and municipal waste, biomass power plants offer a sustainable solution by converting this waste into electricity.

Biomass power generation can play a critical role in managing this waste, particularly organic waste, which is often left to decompose in landfills, releasing harmful greenhouse gases like methane. By diverting this waste to biomass plants, countries can reduce landfill use and cut emissions.

Trends

Advancements in Biomass Conversion Technologies

One of the most exciting emerging factors driving the growth of biomass power generation is the rapid advancement in biomass conversion technologies. These innovations are making it easier, more efficient, and cost-effective to convert various types of biomass into energy, opening up new possibilities for the sector.

Governments are also supporting these innovations through funding and policy initiatives. For instance, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has allocated millions of dollars in grants to support research and development in biomass technologies.

Regional Analysis

Biomass Power Generation Market by Region: APAC

In 2024, the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region held a significant share of the global biomass power generation market, capturing approximately 37.5% of the market, valued at USD 46.9 billion. The region’s dominance is largely attributed to its large population, rapid industrialization, and growing demand for sustainable energy sources.

Countries like China, India, Japan, and South Korea are at the forefront of adopting biomass as a key renewable energy source, driven by the need to reduce carbon emissions and improve energy security. China, being the world’s largest emitter of greenhouse gases, has made substantial investments in renewable energy, including biomass.

As of 2024, China’s biomass power generation capacity exceeds 20 GW, and the country has implemented several government policies that promote biomass energy, including subsidies for power plants and a focus on agricultural residues as feedstock.

India, with its vast agricultural sector, also benefits from a high availability of biomass resources, using crop residues, forestry waste, and other organic materials for power generation. Japan and South Korea, though smaller in terms of biomass capacity, have been focusing on advanced technologies like biomass cogeneration and are committed to achieving ambitious renewable energy targets.

Key Regions and Countries

• North America
  • US
  • Canada
• Europe
  • Germany
  • France
  • The UK
  • Spain
  • Italy
  • Rest of Europe
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • South Korea
  • India
  • Australia
  • Rest of APAC
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Rest of Latin America
• Middle East & Africa
  • GCC
  • South Africa
  • Rest of MEA

Key Players Analysis

• ACCIONA is a global leader in renewable energy, including biomass power generation. The company focuses on sustainable solutions, operating biomass plants that utilize agricultural and forestry waste. ACCIONA’s expertise in integrating biomass with other renewables has strengthened its position in the market.
• Ameresco specializes in energy efficiency and renewable energy projects, including biomass power generation. The company designs and operates biomass facilities that convert waste into energy, serving municipal, industrial, and government clients. Ameresco’s innovative approach and focus on sustainability have made it a key player in the U.S. and international markets, driving growth in the biomass sector.
• Vattenfall AB, a Swedish energy company, is a major player in biomass power generation, particularly in Europe. The company has invested heavily in converting coal plants to biomass, significantly reducing carbon emissions. Vattenfall’s focus on large-scale biomass projects and its commitment to sustainability have solidified its reputation as a leader in the renewable energy market.

Top Key Players in the Market

• ACCIONA
• Ameresco, Vattenfall AB
• Babcock & Wilcox Enterprises, Inc
• Belgian Eco Energy (BEE)
• D.E.S.I Power
• Drax Global
• EDF
• ENGIE
• EPH
• Greta Energy Limited
• Hurst Boiler & Welding Co, Inc
• Lahti Energia Oy
• MITSUBISHI HEAVY INDUSTRIES, LTD.
• Ørsted A/S
• RENOVA, Inc.
• RWE
• Salzburg AG
• Statkraft
• Sumitomo Corporation
• Vattenfall
• Veolia
• Xcel Energy Inc.
• Yonago Biomass Power Generation LLC

Recent Developments

• In 2024, the company operates several biomass plants worldwide, utilizing agricultural and forestry waste to produce clean energy. ACCIONA’s biomass facilities have a combined capacity of over 300 MW, contributing significantly to reducing carbon emissions and promoting circular economy practices.
• In 2024, Ameresco has developed and operates over 50 biomass projects globally, with a combined capacity of more than 500 MW. These projects primarily focus on converting agricultural waste, forestry residues, and municipal solid waste into clean energy, helping communities reduce landfill use and cut carbon emissions.
• In 2024, Vattenfall AB, a leading Swedish energy company, has been a major player in the biomass power generation sector, particularly in Europe. The company plans to expand its biomass capacity by an additional 200 MW, focusing on sustainable wood pellets and agricultural residues.

Report Scope