Key Insights
The North American waste-to-energy (WtE) industry is experiencing robust growth, driven by stringent environmental regulations aimed at reducing landfill waste and increasing renewable energy generation. The market, currently valued at approximately $X billion in 2025 (assuming a logical extrapolation from the provided CAGR of >7.5% and a market size of XX million in an unspecified year), is projected to witness a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) exceeding 7.5% from 2025 to 2033. This growth is fueled by several key factors. Firstly, increasing urbanization and industrialization are leading to a surge in waste generation, necessitating innovative and sustainable waste management solutions. Secondly, government initiatives promoting renewable energy sources and stricter regulations on landfill disposal are incentivizing the adoption of WtE technologies. Technological advancements in thermal, physical, and biological WtE processes are further enhancing efficiency and reducing environmental impact, contributing to market expansion. While challenges such as high capital investment costs and public perception related to potential environmental risks exist, the long-term benefits of reduced landfill burden and renewable energy production are outweighing these concerns, driving sustained growth in the sector.
The North American market is segmented by technology, with thermal technologies currently dominating due to their established infrastructure and scalability. However, the biological and physical technologies are gaining traction due to their potential for resource recovery and reduced greenhouse gas emissions. Key players such as Covanta Holding Corp, Suez SA, and Waste Management Inc. are driving innovation and market consolidation through strategic partnerships, technological advancements, and acquisitions. The United States, as the largest economy in North America, holds the largest market share within the region, followed by Canada and Mexico. The forecast period (2025-2033) anticipates consistent growth fueled by continued policy support, technological advancements, and a growing awareness of sustainable waste management practices. The industry is expected to see a significant shift towards more advanced and efficient technologies, leading to increased resource recovery and reduced environmental impact.

North America Waste to Energy Industry Report: 2019-2033
This comprehensive report provides an in-depth analysis of the North America waste-to-energy market, offering crucial insights for investors, industry stakeholders, and strategic decision-makers. With a study period spanning 2019-2033, a base year of 2025, and a forecast period of 2025-2033, this report delivers actionable intelligence on market dynamics, technological advancements, and emerging opportunities within this rapidly evolving sector. The report includes detailed analysis of key market segments (Physical, Thermal, and Biological technologies), leading players (including Covanta Holding Corp, Suez SA, Babcock & Wilcox Volund AS, Martin GmbH, Wheelabrator Technologies Inc, Veolia Environnement SA, Waste Management Inc, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd, Enerkem Inc., and Green Conversion Systems (GCS)), and significant industry milestones. The market size is projected to reach xx Million by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of xx% during the forecast period.
North America Waste to Energy Industry Market Concentration & Dynamics
The North America waste-to-energy market exhibits a moderately concentrated landscape, with a few major players holding significant market share. However, the presence of numerous smaller companies and ongoing M&A activities suggest a dynamic and competitive environment. Market share data for 2024 indicates that the top 5 players collectively hold approximately xx% of the market, while the remaining share is distributed across numerous smaller players. The innovation ecosystem is vibrant, driven by continuous technological advancements and the increasing focus on sustainable waste management solutions. Stringent regulatory frameworks, particularly concerning environmental compliance and emissions standards, significantly shape market dynamics. Substitute products, such as landfilling and incineration without energy recovery, face growing competition due to increasing environmental concerns and the economic viability of waste-to-energy solutions. End-user trends show a growing preference for sustainable waste management practices, fueled by rising environmental awareness among both consumers and businesses. M&A activities in the sector have been robust in recent years, with an average of xx deals annually during the historical period (2019-2024). These deals primarily involve strategic acquisitions aimed at expanding geographical reach, technological capabilities, and waste processing capacity.
- Market Concentration: Moderately concentrated, with top 5 players holding xx% market share in 2024.
- M&A Activity: Average of xx deals annually (2019-2024).
- Regulatory Landscape: Stringent environmental regulations drive market dynamics.
- Substitute Products: Facing increased competition from waste-to-energy solutions.
North America Waste to Energy Industry Industry Insights & Trends
The North America waste-to-energy market is experiencing robust growth, driven by several key factors. Increasing volumes of municipal solid waste (MSW) and industrial waste, coupled with stringent landfill regulations and rising disposal costs, are creating a compelling need for alternative waste management solutions. Technological advancements, including the development of more efficient and cost-effective waste-to-energy technologies, are further boosting market expansion. Furthermore, growing environmental awareness among consumers and businesses is fueling demand for sustainable waste management practices, creating a favorable environment for waste-to-energy adoption. The market size was valued at xx Million in 2024 and is projected to reach xx Million by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of xx%. This growth is fueled by increasing government initiatives promoting renewable energy sources, along with a growing emphasis on circular economy principles and carbon reduction targets. Technological disruptions, such as the introduction of advanced gasification and pyrolysis technologies, are enhancing the efficiency and environmental performance of waste-to-energy systems, leading to wider adoption. Evolving consumer behaviors, characterized by a greater emphasis on sustainability and environmental responsibility, are further driving market growth.

Key Markets & Segments Leading North America Waste to Energy Industry
The North America waste-to-energy market is geographically diverse, with significant activity across various regions. While specific regional dominance requires further analysis based on data availability, California, Texas, and New York are prominent states in this sector based on ongoing projects and initiatives, driven by larger population densities and stringent environmental regulations. The thermal technology segment currently dominates the market, owing to its established technology base and cost-effectiveness. However, the biological technology segment is poised for significant growth due to its potential for producing biofuels and other valuable byproducts.
Drivers:
- Economic Growth: Expanding economies lead to increased waste generation and necessitate advanced waste management solutions.
- Stringent Regulations: Environmental regulations driving the adoption of cleaner waste management techniques.
- Technological Advancements: Innovations in waste-to-energy technologies leading to improved efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
- Infrastructure Development: Investments in waste management infrastructure facilitate the adoption of waste-to-energy solutions.
Dominance Analysis: The thermal technology segment currently holds the largest market share primarily due to its maturity and established infrastructure. However, the biological technology segment is gaining traction due to its environmental benefits and potential for producing biofuels. Further analysis is needed to determine precise market share for each technology segment.
North America Waste to Energy Industry Product Developments
Recent product innovations in the North America waste-to-energy market focus on enhancing efficiency, reducing emissions, and diversifying energy outputs. This includes advancements in gasification, pyrolysis, and anaerobic digestion technologies, which enable the conversion of diverse waste streams into valuable energy products, including electricity, heat, and biofuels. These advancements improve the overall economic and environmental viability of waste-to-energy solutions, thereby increasing their market relevance and providing companies with a competitive edge.
Challenges in the North America Waste to Energy Industry Market
Significant challenges hinder the growth of the North America waste-to-energy industry. These include high capital costs associated with building and operating waste-to-energy facilities, complex permitting processes and regulatory hurdles, and the potential for public opposition related to siting and environmental concerns. Supply chain disruptions impacting the procurement of necessary equipment and materials also pose a challenge. Additionally, intense competition among existing and emerging players can restrict profit margins. These factors can collectively reduce the rate of market growth.
Forces Driving North America Waste to Energy Industry Growth
Several factors are driving the growth of the North America waste-to-energy industry. These include increasing government support and incentives for renewable energy projects, escalating landfill costs and stricter environmental regulations, growing public awareness of environmental issues, and technological advancements that improve the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of waste-to-energy technologies. Examples include initiatives like California's SB 1383, promoting organic waste reduction, and the growing adoption of advanced gasification technologies.
Challenges in the North America Waste to Energy Industry Market
Long-term growth catalysts include continued technological innovations, strategic partnerships between waste management companies and energy producers, and expansion into new markets, particularly those with limited landfill capacity or stringent waste management regulations. The increasing focus on circular economy principles will also drive demand for waste-to-energy solutions.
Emerging Opportunities in North America Waste to Energy Industry
Emerging opportunities lie in the development and adoption of advanced waste-to-energy technologies, such as plasma gasification and hydrothermal liquefaction, which can handle a broader range of waste materials. The integration of waste-to-energy facilities into smart city initiatives, the production of biofuels and other valuable byproducts from waste, and the expansion into new geographical markets represent further avenues for growth.
Leading Players in the North America Waste to Energy Industry Sector
- Covanta Holding Corp
- Suez SA
- Babcock & Wilcox Volund AS
- Martin GmbH
- Wheelabrator Technologies Inc
- Veolia Environnement SA
- Waste Management Inc
- Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd
- Enerkem Inc.
- Green Conversion Systems (GCS)
Key Milestones in North America Waste to Energy Industry Industry
- October 2022: Kore Infrastructure successfully demonstrates its waste-to-energy modular system in Los Angeles, showcasing the potential for decentralized, carbon-negative waste processing.
- October 2022: The Washington State Department of Commerce awards USD 850,000 in grants to four projects focused on beneficial uses for industrial waste, highlighting government support for innovation in waste management.
Strategic Outlook for North America Waste to Energy Industry Market
The North America waste-to-energy market presents significant growth potential driven by a confluence of factors, including increasing waste generation, stringent environmental regulations, and the growing adoption of advanced technologies. Strategic opportunities exist for companies that can successfully navigate regulatory hurdles, develop innovative and cost-effective technologies, and establish strong partnerships across the value chain. The market is poised for continued expansion, with significant opportunities for both established players and emerging entrants.
North America Waste to Energy Industry Segmentation
-
1. Technology
- 1.1. Physical Technology
- 1.2. Thermal Technology
- 1.3. Biological Technology
-
2. Geography
- 2.1. United States
- 2.2. Canada
- 2.3. Rest of North America
North America Waste to Energy Industry Segmentation By Geography
- 1. United States
- 2. Canada
- 3. Rest of North America

North America Waste to Energy Industry REPORT HIGHLIGHTS
Aspects | Details |
---|---|
Study Period | 2019-2033 |
Base Year | 2024 |
Estimated Year | 2025 |
Forecast Period | 2025-2033 |
Historical Period | 2019-2024 |
Growth Rate | CAGR of > 7.50% from 2019-2033 |
Segmentation |
|
Table of Contents
- 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.; Increasing Investments in Wind Power Projects4.; Supportive Government Policies
- 3.3. Market Restrains
- 3.3.1. 4.; Increasing Adoption of Alternate Energy Sources
- 3.4. Market Trends
- 3.4.1. Thermal Based Waste to Energy Conversion 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. North America Waste to Energy Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Technology
- 5.1.1. Physical Technology
- 5.1.2. Thermal Technology
- 5.1.3. Biological Technology
- 5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geography
- 5.2.1. United States
- 5.2.2. Canada
- 5.2.3. Rest of North America
- 5.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Region
- 5.3.1. United States
- 5.3.2. Canada
- 5.3.3. Rest of North America
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Technology
- 6. United States North America Waste to Energy Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Technology
- 6.1.1. Physical Technology
- 6.1.2. Thermal Technology
- 6.1.3. Biological Technology
- 6.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geography
- 6.2.1. United States
- 6.2.2. Canada
- 6.2.3. Rest of North America
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Technology
- 7. Canada North America Waste to Energy Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Technology
- 7.1.1. Physical Technology
- 7.1.2. Thermal Technology
- 7.1.3. Biological Technology
- 7.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geography
- 7.2.1. United States
- 7.2.2. Canada
- 7.2.3. Rest of North America
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Technology
- 8. Rest of North America North America Waste to Energy Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Technology
- 8.1.1. Physical Technology
- 8.1.2. Thermal Technology
- 8.1.3. Biological Technology
- 8.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geography
- 8.2.1. United States
- 8.2.2. Canada
- 8.2.3. Rest of North America
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Technology
- 9. United States North America Waste to Energy Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 10. Canada North America Waste to Energy Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 11. Mexico North America Waste to Energy Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 12. Rest of North America North America Waste to Energy Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 13. Competitive Analysis
- 13.1. Market Share Analysis 2024
- 13.2. Company Profiles
- 13.2.1 Covanta Holding Corp
- 13.2.1.1. Overview
- 13.2.1.2. Products
- 13.2.1.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.1.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.1.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.2 Suez SA
- 13.2.2.1. Overview
- 13.2.2.2. Products
- 13.2.2.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.2.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.2.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.3 Babcock & Wilcox Volund AS*List Not Exhaustive
- 13.2.3.1. Overview
- 13.2.3.2. Products
- 13.2.3.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.3.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.3.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.4 Martin GmbH
- 13.2.4.1. Overview
- 13.2.4.2. Products
- 13.2.4.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.4.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.4.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.5 Wheelabrator Technologies Inc
- 13.2.5.1. Overview
- 13.2.5.2. Products
- 13.2.5.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.5.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.5.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.6 Veolia Environnement SA
- 13.2.6.1. Overview
- 13.2.6.2. Products
- 13.2.6.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.6.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.6.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.7 Waste Management Inc
- 13.2.7.1. Overview
- 13.2.7.2. Products
- 13.2.7.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.7.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.7.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.8 Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd
- 13.2.8.1. Overview
- 13.2.8.2. Products
- 13.2.8.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.8.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.8.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.9 Enerkem Inc.
- 13.2.9.1. Overview
- 13.2.9.2. Products
- 13.2.9.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.9.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.9.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.10 Green Conversion Systems (GCS)
- 13.2.10.1. Overview
- 13.2.10.2. Products
- 13.2.10.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.10.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.10.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.1 Covanta Holding Corp
List of Figures
- Figure 1: North America Waste to Energy Industry Revenue Breakdown (Million, %) by Product 2024 & 2032
- Figure 2: North America Waste to Energy Industry Share (%) by Company 2024
List of Tables
- Table 1: North America Waste to Energy Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 2: North America Waste to Energy Industry Volume Gigawatt Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 3: North America Waste to Energy Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Technology 2019 & 2032
- Table 4: North America Waste to Energy Industry Volume Gigawatt Forecast, by Technology 2019 & 2032
- Table 5: North America Waste to Energy Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 6: North America Waste to Energy Industry Volume Gigawatt Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 7: North America Waste to Energy Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 8: North America Waste to Energy Industry Volume Gigawatt Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 9: North America Waste to Energy Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 10: North America Waste to Energy Industry Volume Gigawatt Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 11: United States North America Waste to Energy Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 12: United States North America Waste to Energy Industry Volume (Gigawatt) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 13: Canada North America Waste to Energy Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 14: Canada North America Waste to Energy Industry Volume (Gigawatt) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 15: Mexico North America Waste to Energy Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 16: Mexico North America Waste to Energy Industry Volume (Gigawatt) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 17: Rest of North America North America Waste to Energy Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 18: Rest of North America North America Waste to Energy Industry Volume (Gigawatt) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 19: North America Waste to Energy Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Technology 2019 & 2032
- Table 20: North America Waste to Energy Industry Volume Gigawatt Forecast, by Technology 2019 & 2032
- Table 21: North America Waste to Energy Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 22: North America Waste to Energy Industry Volume Gigawatt Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 23: North America Waste to Energy Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 24: North America Waste to Energy Industry Volume Gigawatt Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 25: North America Waste to Energy Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Technology 2019 & 2032
- Table 26: North America Waste to Energy Industry Volume Gigawatt Forecast, by Technology 2019 & 2032
- Table 27: North America Waste to Energy Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 28: North America Waste to Energy Industry Volume Gigawatt Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 29: North America Waste to Energy Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 30: North America Waste to Energy Industry Volume Gigawatt Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 31: North America Waste to Energy Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Technology 2019 & 2032
- Table 32: North America Waste to Energy Industry Volume Gigawatt Forecast, by Technology 2019 & 2032
- Table 33: North America Waste to Energy Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 34: North America Waste to Energy Industry Volume Gigawatt Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 35: North America Waste to Energy Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 36: North America Waste to Energy Industry Volume Gigawatt Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the North America Waste to Energy Industry?
The projected CAGR is approximately > 7.50%.
2. Which companies are prominent players in the North America Waste to Energy Industry?
Key companies in the market include Covanta Holding Corp, Suez SA, Babcock & Wilcox Volund AS*List Not Exhaustive, Martin GmbH, Wheelabrator Technologies Inc, Veolia Environnement SA, Waste Management Inc, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd, Enerkem Inc. , Green Conversion Systems (GCS).
3. What are the main segments of the North America Waste to Energy Industry?
The market segments include Technology, Geography.
4. Can you provide details about the market size?
The market size is estimated to be USD XX Million as of 2022.
5. What are some drivers contributing to market growth?
4.; Increasing Investments in Wind Power Projects4.; Supportive Government Policies.
6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?
Thermal Based Waste to Energy Conversion to Dominate the Market.
7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?
4.; Increasing Adoption of Alternate Energy Sources.
8. Can you provide examples of recent developments in the market?
October 2022: Kore Infrastructure announced the successful one-year demonstration of its waste-to-energy modular system in Los Angeles, California. The company's technology can produce 100% renewable energy from organic waste using a closed-loop, carbon-negative process.
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 Million 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 "North America Waste to Energy Industry," 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 North America Waste to Energy Industry 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 North America Waste to Energy Industry?
To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the North America Waste to Energy Industry, 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*)

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