The hydropower generation market is witnessing significant growth momentum as governments and utilities worldwide accelerate the transition toward renewable and low-carbon energy sources. The global hydropower generation market attained a value of more than USD 251.19 Billion in 2025 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.00% during the forecast period of 2026–2035, reaching over USD 449.84 Billion by 2035.Hydropower remains one of the most reliable and widely deployed renewable energy technologies, offering large-scale electricity generation with minimal greenhouse gas emissions. Its ability to provide baseload power, peak load balancing, and grid stability makes hydropower a critical component of national energy systems, particularly as renewable energy penetration increases.
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One of the key drivers of the hydropower generation market is the global push for energy security and decarbonization. Governments are increasingly investing in renewable energy infrastructure to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and meet climate commitments. Hydropower projects, including large dams, run-of-river systems, and pumped storage facilities, are gaining renewed attention as long-term, sustainable energy solutions.
Pumped storage hydropower is emerging as a vital growth segment within the market. As solar and wind power generation expands, the need for large-scale energy storage solutions is rising. Pumped storage plants provide efficient energy storage and rapid response capabilities, helping balance supply and demand while enhancing grid reliability.
Technological advancements are also shaping the hydropower generation market. Modern turbine designs, digital monitoring systems, and automation technologies are improving plant efficiency, operational flexibility, and environmental performance. Additionally, the refurbishment and modernization of aging hydropower facilities are creating new investment opportunities, particularly in developed economies.
From a regional perspective, Asia-Pacific dominates the hydropower generation market due to extensive hydroelectric capacity and ongoing investments in countries such as China, India, and Southeast Asia. Latin America and Africa also present strong growth potential, supported by abundant water resources and increasing electrification initiatives. Meanwhile, Europe and North America are focusing on upgrading existing infrastructure and expanding pumped storage capacity to support renewable integration.
Environmental and social considerations continue to influence project development. Stakeholders are placing greater emphasis on sustainable project planning, ecosystem preservation, and community engagement. As a result, smaller-scale and environmentally optimized hydropower projects are gaining traction alongside large installations.
The global hydropower generation market is expected to experience robust growth through 2035, supported by rising renewable energy investments, growing electricity demand, and the need for grid stability and energy storage solutions. Market participants focusing on technological innovation, sustainability, and infrastructure modernization are well-positioned to capitalize on emerging opportunities in the evolving global energy landscape.