Refuse-Derived Fuel (RDF) Industry Analysis in North America

Refuse-Derived Fuel (RDF) Sales Outlook for North America (2024 to 2034)

Demand for refuse-derived fuel (RDF) in North America is calculated at a market value of US$ 392.7 million in 2024 and is projected to increase at a CAGR of 3.4% to reach US$ 548.61 million by the end of 2034.

Refuse-derived fuel (RDF) is a type of fuel that is manufactured from solid waste such as industrial waste, municipal solid waste, commercial waste, or construction and demolition waste. The process involves sorting and processing the waste to remove recyclable materials, and the remaining organic and residual waste is then treated to create refuse-derived fuel. This fuel is often used as a renewable energy source in waste-to-energy facilities.

• According to Fact.MR, a market research and competitive intelligence provider, sales of municipal solid waste for the production of refuse-derived fuel are forecasted to rise at a CAGR of 3.9% and reach US$ 279.14 million by 2034.

Production of refuse-derived fuel typically involves shredding and drying the waste material to create a fuel with high-energy content. RDF can be used for heat and power generation in various industrial processes, including cement kilns and power plants. It serves as an alternative to traditional fossil fuels and contributes to waste management strategies by reducing the amount of waste sent to landfills. The utilization of refuse-derived fuel aligns with sustainability goals, as it helps reduce the reliance on finite fossil fuels and minimizes the environmental impact of waste disposal.

Report Attributes	Details
Refuse-Derived Fuel (RDF) Sales in North America (2024E)	US$ 392.7 Million
Forecasted Sales (2034F)	US$ 548.61 Million
Demand Growth (2024 to 2034)	3.4% CAGR
Low-Grade Refuse-Derived Fuel Sales (2024E)	US$ 274.7 Million
Key Companies Profiled	Veolia Renewi SUEZ Recycling and Recovery Covanta Energy Corporation

What’s Boosting Popularity of Refuse-Derived Fuel in North America?

“Integration of Advanced Sorting and Processing Technologies Leading to Efficient RDF Production”

Ongoing advancements in RDF technologies are crucial for improving the efficiency and quality of refuse-derived fuel in North America. These advancements primarily focus on enhancing the sorting and processing technologies involved in the production of RDF.

Modern RDF production facilities are increasingly utilizing advanced automated sorting systems. These systems employ sensors, cameras, and artificial intelligence to identify and separate different types of waste materials. This enhances the efficiency of the sorting process by reducing reliance on manual labor and improving accuracy.

Near-infrared (NIR) technology is often used for material identification in sorting processes. It allows for the rapid and accurate identification of different materials based on their spectral characteristics, enabling precise separation of valuable recyclables from waste destined for RDF production. Advanced shredding technologies are employed to break down waste materials into smaller, uniform particles. This step is crucial for creating RDF with consistent quality and improving the overall combustion efficiency.

Efficient drying systems are integrated into refuse-derived fuel production processes to reduce the moisture content of the waste material. Lower moisture content enhances the calorific value of the RDF, making it a more effective and energy-dense fuel. Furthermore, advanced quality control measures, such as real-time monitoring and feedback systems, help ensure that the RDF produced meets specific standards. This involves monitoring factors such as particle size, moisture content, and the composition of the final RDF product.

Country-wise Analysis

How is the Market for Refuse-Derived Fuel Faring in the United States?

“Strict Environmental Regulations and Landfill Diversion Targets Boosting Consumption of Refuse-Derived Fuel”

Attribute	United States
Market Value (2024E)	US$ 343.5 Million
Growth Rate (2024 to 2034)	3.5% CAGR
Projected Value (2034F)	US$ 484.54 Million

Stringent environmental regulations in the United States, along with ambitious landfill diversion targets, are significantly driving refuse-derived fuel sales. Municipalities and waste management companies in the United States are compelled to explore sustainable waste-to-energy solutions such as refuse-derived fuel to meet regulatory requirements and reduce reliance on landfills.

The increasing demand for renewable energy sources is further playing a pivotal role in boosting refuse-derived fuel sales in the United States. As the United States aims to diversify its energy mix and reduce dependence on fossil fuels, refuse-derived fuel is emerging as a viable option for producing clean and renewable energy through waste conversion.

What’s Influencing Refuse-Derived Fuel Sales in Canada?

“Supportive Government Policies toward Renewable Energy Production and Waste Management Driving RDF Demand”

Attribute	Canada
Market Value (2024E)	US$ 49.2 Million
Growth Rate (2024 to 2034)	2.8% CAGR
Projected Value (2034F)	US$ 64.85 Million

Supportive government policies and incentives for renewable energy and waste management are contributing to the growth of RDF sales in Canada. Fiscal measures and regulatory frameworks that encourage the use of refuse-derived fuel as a sustainable energy source are also boosting market growth.

With a focus on efficient waste management and reduction of landfill waste, Canada is witnessing an increasing emphasis on waste-to-energy solutions such as refuse-derived fuel. The integration of RDF into waste management strategies is driven by the need for sustainable and environmentally responsible practices.

Category-wise Analysis

Why is RDF Sought After for Cement Kilns?

“Cement Kiln Operators Seeking More Sustainable Energy Option Such as RDF”

Attribute	Cement Kilns
Segment Value (2024E)	US$ 188.5 Million
Growth Rate (2024 to 2034)	3.2% CAGR
Projected Value (2034F)	US$ 258.29 Million

Cement kilns utilize RDF as an alternative fuel source, replacing traditional fossil fuels. Stringent environmental regulations, particularly regulations aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions are driving the demand for cleaner and more sustainable energy sources in industrial processes such as refuse-derived fuel. RDF is considered a low-carbon alternative, helping cement kilns comply with emissions standards.

Cement production is an energy-intensive process, and the use of refuse-derived fuel in cement kilns can offer cost savings compared to traditional fossil fuels. RDF is often more economically viable, providing an attractive option for cement manufacturers looking to manage operational expenses.

Cement kilns using RDF are also contributing significantly to waste management strategies by utilizing non-recyclable waste materials. This aligns with circular economy principles, where waste is viewed as a resource, and materials are recovered for energy generation rather than being sent to landfills.

Competitive Landscape

Leading refuse-derived fuel companies in the North American market are employing various marketing strategies such as technological innovation, strategic partnerships, circular economy strategies, and market expansion to increase their market position and profit shares.

Continuous investments in research and development efforts help key market players stay at the forefront of technological advancements. Innovations in RDF processing technologies, emission control systems, and overall plant efficiency are leading to the development of superior products and services, attracting more customers and improving profitability.

Segmentation of Refuse-Derived Fuel Study in North America

• By Fuel Type :

  • High Grade (>10 Mj/kg)
  • Low Grade (<10 Mj/kg)

• By Application :

  • Cement Kilns
  • Co-Combustion
  • Gasification
  • CHP
  • Others

• By Feedstock :

  • Municipal Solid Waste
  • Industrial Waste
  • Commercial Waste
  • Construction and Demolition Waste

• By Production Technology :

  • Mechanical Biological Treatment
  • Pyrolysis and Gasification

• By Country :

  • United States
  • Canada