Hydropower - United States

The Hydropower Market within the Renewable Energy sector in the United States has experienced minimal decline, influenced by aging infrastructure, regulatory challenges, and competition from other renewable sources, alongside a growing emphasis on sustainability and energy efficiency.

Customer preferences: Consumers are increasingly prioritizing sustainable energy solutions, driving interest in hydropower as a reliable renewable source. This shift is influenced by a growing awareness of climate change and the desire for energy independence. Younger demographics, particularly millennials and Gen Z, are advocating for eco-friendly practices and supporting companies that align with their values. Additionally, as smart home technologies gain traction, homeowners are exploring integrated systems that leverage hydropower for energy efficiency, reflecting a broader trend towards sustainable living.

Trends in the market: In the United States, the hydropower market is experiencing a surge in investment as states aim to meet renewable energy targets. This trend is fueled by federal incentives and growing public support for clean energy initiatives. As climate concerns escalate, utilities are exploring innovative hydropower solutions, including small-scale projects and pumped storage systems, to enhance grid stability. Industry stakeholders are adapting to this shift by investing in modernization and integrating hydropower with emerging technologies, such as energy storage, to optimize efficiency and reliability, positioning themselves for long-term growth.

Local special circumstances: In the United States, the hydropower market is uniquely shaped by its vast geographical diversity, with rivers and lakes providing abundant resources for energy generation. Regulatory frameworks, such as federal and state incentives for renewable energy, further support this growth. Culturally, there is a strong public commitment to sustainability, driving demand for cleaner energy solutions. Additionally, local opposition to large dams has led to an emphasis on small-scale and run-of-river projects, influencing project development and investment strategies across the nation.

Underlying macroeconomic factors: The hydropower market in the United States is significantly influenced by macroeconomic factors, including national economic health, investment trends, and global energy dynamics. A robust economy fosters greater investment in renewable energy infrastructure, while federal and state fiscal policies, such as tax credits and grants, enhance the attractiveness of hydropower projects. Additionally, the global shift towards decarbonization and energy independence drives demand for renewable sources, including hydropower. Economic uncertainties, such as inflation or shifts in energy prices, can impact project financing and operational costs, shaping the overall market landscape.

Data coverage:

The data encompasses B2B enterprises. Figures are based on the value of electricity production in the energy market.

Modeling approach:

Market sizes are determined through a bottom-up approach, building on specific predefined factors for each market segment. As a basis for evaluating markets, we use resources from the Statista platform as well as annual reports of the market-leading companies and industry associations, third-party studies and reports, national statistical offices, international institutions, and the experience of our analysts.

Forecasts:

In our forecasts, we apply diverse forecasting techniques. The selection of forecasting techniques is based on the behavior of the relevant market. For example, the S-curve function and exponential trend smoothing are well suited for forecasting electricity generation due to the non-linear growth of this market, especially because of the direct impact of climate change on the market.

Additional notes:

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine war are considered at a country-specific level. The market is updated twice a year.