South Korea Landfill Gas Market Overview
As per MRFR analysis, the South Korea Landfill Gas Market Size was estimated at 175.5 (USD Million) in 2024.The South Korea Landfill Gas Market Industry is expected to grow from 186.66(USD Million) in 2025 to 933.32 (USD Million) by 2035. The South Korea Landfill Gas Market CAGR (growth rate) is expected to be around 15.756% during the forecast period (2025 - 2035)
Key South Korea Landfill Gas Market Trends Highlighted
The South Korea Landfill Gas Market is experiencing significant trends driven by a strong governmental focus on renewable energy and waste management. The South Korean government has implemented various policies aimed at enhancing energy self-sufficiency and addressing environmental concerns, leading to an increased emphasis on harnessing landfill gas as a valuable energy source.
The transition towards a circular economy is becoming prominent, with landfill gas being recognized as a key method to convert waste into energy, reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the process. Furthermore, investments in technology and infrastructure for capturing and utilizing landfill gas are on the rise, spurred by both public and private sector initiatives.
Opportunities in the South Korean market are abundant, especially in the development of advanced technologies for gas extraction and energy conversion. The government is encouraging public-private partnerships to foster innovation and improve efficiency in waste-to-energy projects. This opens avenues for local and international companies to invest in South Korea’s landfill gas sector, particularly in the construction and upgrading of facilities that can not only generate energy but also improve the overall sustainability of waste management systems.
In recent times, community awareness about environmental issues has grown, pushing local governments to adopt more sustainable practices that include the utilization of landfill gas.As South Korea aims to meet its ambitious climate targets, the focus on alternative energy sources such as landfill gas will likely continue to expand.
The trend toward greater regulatory support and financial incentives for converting waste into energy further solidifies the landfill gas market as a crucial component of the nation’s energy landscape. Overall, these factors shape a dynamic environment for the landfill gas market in South Korea, highlighting both the commitment to sustainable practices and the potential for economic growth through green energy solutions.

Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review
South Korea Landfill Gas Market Drivers
Growing Demand for Renewable Energy Sources
The South Korea Landfill Gas Market Industry is witnessing a significant rise due to the increasing demand for renewable energy sources. The South Korean government has set ambitious targets to expand the share of renewable energy in its energy mix, aiming for 20% by 2030. This initiative is primarily driven by the South Korean Green New Deal program, which seeks to stimulate economic growth while addressing environmental concerns. The government's commitment has led to an increase in investments towards landfill gas utilization, as it is considered a clean energy source.
The total greenhouse gas emissions will be anticipated to fall by 30% compared to the 2018 levels by 2030, as stated by the Ministry of Environment of South Korea. This shows the greater need to further improve renewable energy projects, including those involving landfill gas. In addition, the Global Green Growth Institute has stated that the shift to renewable energy is expected to generate around 1.6 million new jobs in South Korea by 2025, which highlights the socio-economic benefits of investing in the South Korea Landfill Gas Market Industry.
Stringent Environmental Regulations
The South Korean government has implemented strict environmental regulations to combat pollution and promote sustainable waste management practices. In 2019, the South Korean Ministry of Environment introduced new regulations enforcing stringent measures on waste disposal and landfill management. This move is critical as the country seeks to manage the increasing waste generation rate, projected to exceed 50 million tons by 2024. The regulations encourage the recovery of landfill gas to minimize methane emissions, a potent greenhouse gas.
As a result, many landfill operators are now focusing on technologies for capturing and utilizing landfill gas, driving growth in the South Korea Landfill Gas Market Industry. Additionally, the Korea Environment Corporation has been actively promoting gas recovery systems, indicating a forecast of capturing an additional 2 million tons of landfill gas per year, which correlates to a significant reduction in harmful emissions.
Technological Advancements in Gas Capture and Utilization
The advancement of technology in gas capture and utilization is a crucial driver for the South Korea Landfill Gas Market Industry. Recent developments in gas collection systems and energy conversion technologies have greatly enhanced the efficiency of extracting energy from landfill gas. For instance, South Korean universities and research institutions, such as Pohang University of Science and Technology, have been actively investing in Research and Development (R&D) projects focusing on innovative biogas upgrading technologies.
These technologies have shown an increase in energy conversion efficiency by up to 25% over traditional methods. This not only enhances the profitability of landfill gas projects but also attracts investment from private entities motivated by reduced operational costs and improved returns on investment. As a result, the drive toward technological excellence is steadily escalating the growth prospects of the South Korea Landfill Gas Market Industry.
South Korea Landfill Gas Market Segment Insights
Landfill Gas Market Application Insights
The South Korea Landfill Gas Market is experiencing significant development, particularly in the Application segment, which encompasses various uses such as Electricity Generation, Direct Use Applications, and Upgrading to Renewable Natural Gas. This market offers a major opportunity for the efficient utilization of landfill gas, a renewable energy source derived from organic waste decomposition. The rise in renewable energy needs in South Korea, propelled by governmental initiatives and regulatory support, underscores the importance of harnessing landfill gas for sustainable energy solutions.Electricity Generation plays a vital role in tapping into this resource, showcasing its utility in contributing to the nation's energy mix while reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
This sector draws significant interest due to its capacity to create a stable and reliable energy supply, addressing both energy needs and environmental concerns in South Korea. Direct Use Applications also stand out as a practical solution, enabling the direct utilization of landfill gas for heating, cooking, and industrial processes. This segment supports energy efficiency and delivers cost savings for industries, thus increasing its appeal in the domestic market.Upgrading to Renewable Natural Gas offers another innovative avenue, facilitating the conversion of landfill gas into high-quality gas that can be injected into existing natural gas pipelines. This process is crucial for diversifying South Korea's energy sources and reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels.
The collaboration between public and private sectors in the development of infrastructure for these applications is anticipated to boost the South Korea Landfill Gas Market, attracting investment and technology transfer. With ongoing research and development efforts and market trends supporting sustainable practices, the Application segment stands as a key driver for growth, aligning with South Korea's commitment to carbon neutrality and environmental sustainability objectives.

Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review
Landfill Gas Market Type of Landfill Gas Insights
The Type of Landfill Gas segment within the South Korea Landfill Gas Market comprises primarily Methane, Carbon Dioxide, and Trace Gases, reflecting the distinct characteristics and significance of each component. Methane, a potent greenhouse gas, emerges as the dominant gas product due to its substantial energy potential, making it a focal point for energy generation and sustainability initiatives in South Korea. The government's increasing emphasis on renewable energy sources has further enhanced the importance of methane capture technologies, presenting opportunities for infrastructure development in gas recovery systems.
Carbon Dioxide, while less energy-rich, plays a crucial role in understanding the carbon footprint of landfill sites, driving regulatory policies aimed at minimizing emissions. Trace Gases, encompassing a variety of components like volatile organic compounds, are critical for comprehensive environmental monitoring and safety regulations, as they can pose health risks if not managed properly. The South Korean market is continuously evolving, driven by technological advancements and regulatory frameworks aimed at improving emissions control and fostering a cleaner environment.
Therefore, the effective management of these gas types not only contributes to energy recovery but also aligns with national sustainability goals, reflecting an integrated approach towards waste management and environmental protection.
Landfill Gas Market Technology Insights
The Technology segment of the South Korea Landfill Gas Market plays a vital role in optimizing the conversion of landfill gas into usable energy while minimizing environmental impact. The Landfill Gas Collection systems are essential for effectively capturing methane, a potent greenhouse gas, which not only helps reduce emissions but also enhances energy recovery efficiency. Gas Treatment Systems are crucial for ensuring the collected gas meets quality standards before utilization, subsequently driving advancements in purification technology. Furthermore, Utilization Technologies enable the transformation of processed landfill gas into electricity or heat, showcasing their significance in promoting renewable energy initiatives in South Korea.
The government is increasingly supporting these technologies as part of its broader environmental policies aimed at sustainability and waste management. With significant investment and innovation in these areas, South Korea is positioned to enhance its energy independence and reduce its carbon footprint, paving the way for growth in the South Korea Landfill Gas Market. The segmentation in this market is indicative of a clear focus on integrating environmentally friendly practices into energy production, driving market growth and responding to both local and global sustainability demands.
Landfill Gas Market Use Insights
The South Korea Landfill Gas Market is gaining significant traction as a vital source of renewable energy, primarily through its Endse applications, which include Power Plants, Industrial Use, and Commercial Use. Power Plants are notably crucial as they harness landfill gas to produce electricity, reducing waste and enhancing energy sustainability. Industrial Use leverages landfill gas in processes, contributing to cost savings while promoting eco-friendly practices across sectors such as manufacturing and food processing. The Commercial Use category encompasses businesses utilizing landfill gas for heating and other energy needs, emphasizing the growing shift towards greener alternatives.
The increasing focus on waste management and renewable sources in South Korea is driven by government initiatives aiming to lower greenhouse gas emissions and enhance energy security. With the potential for significant contributions to national energy goals, the South Korea Landfill Gas Market highlights an opportunity for the country to transition towards sustainable practices while optimizing waste management strategies. As these segments expand, they not only address energy demands but also contribute to a more sustainable future. Overall, the importance of landfill gas in these varied applications underscores its role as a key player in South Korea's ongoing energy transformation.
South Korea Landfill Gas Market Key Players and Competitive Insights
The South Korea Landfill Gas Market is an evolving sector that highlights the importance of sustainable waste management and energy generation. In recent years, the global emphasis on renewable energy and waste-to-energy solutions has prompted significant attention toward landfill gas as a viable source of energy. The competitive landscape is characterized by a mix of local players and international companies leveraging technological advancements and innovative practices to enhance efficiency and reduce environmental footprints. Given South Korea's stringent regulations regarding waste management and air quality, companies in this market are actively developing sophisticated landfill gas collection and conversion technologies to maximize energy production while ensuring compliance with national policies.
Hanwha Energy plays a significant role in the South Korea Landfill Gas Market, benefiting from its strong position as a leading energy provider in the region. The company has implemented several initiatives aimed at harnessing landfill gas to produce clean energy, thereby contributing to the country's renewable energy goals. With a strategic focus on sustainability, Hanwha Energy has established numerous landfill gas-to-energy projects across the nation, enhancing its market presence. The company’s strengths lie in its substantial investments in technology-driven solutions that optimize the gas extraction process and its comprehensive approach to managing waste resources efficiently. By leveraging partnerships with local governments and waste management entities, Hanwha Energy has successfully positioned itself as a key player in transforming waste into valuable energy resources.Duke Energy presents another noteworthy presence in the South Korea Landfill Gas Market, focusing on integrating landfill gas solutions into its operations.
The company’s key offerings in this region revolve around converting methane generated from landfills into electricity, which plays a crucial role in powering local communities. Duke Energy's market presence is marked by its commitment to environmental sustainability and innovation, which allows it to stay ahead in a competitive landscape. Its strengths include a robust portfolio of projects aimed at harnessing landfill gas and its ongoing efforts in pursuing strategic partnerships that enhance operational efficiencies. While the company has not reported extensive mergers and acquisitions in South Korea, its proactive approach to collaborating with regional stakeholders underscores its commitment to fostering sustainable energy solutions and enhancing its footprint in the landfill gas sector.
Key Companies in the South Korea Landfill Gas Market Include
- Hanwha Energy
- Duke Energy
- SK E&S
- Hyundai Engineering & Construction
- Veolia
- SNAM
- Sungrow Power Supply
- GS Engineering and Construction
- Korea Electric Power Corporation
- LG Energy Solution
- Enel Green Power
- Korea Gas Corporation
- Toyo Engineering Corporation
- Doosan Heavy Industries and Construction
- Korea Environment Corporation
South Korea Landfill Gas Market Industry Developments
In recent developments within the South Korea Landfill Gas Market, Hanwha Energy has emphasized its commitment to increasing renewable energy sources, particularly focusing on harnessing landfill gas for sustainable energy production, in alignment with national policy aiming for carbon neutrality by 2050. Duke Energy is also exploring potential collaborations with local municipal governments to enhance landfill gas utilization while SK E&S continues to expand its investment in waste-to-energy projects. Notably, Veolia has been actively improving landfill gas recovery technologies that benefit the environmental management sector in South Korea. In terms of mergers and acquisitions, February 2023 saw GS Engineering and Construction acquiring a significant stake in a local landfill gas project, further consolidating its position in the market.
The South Korean government’s recent initiatives to boost the landfill gas market, alongside funding opportunities for green energy projects, have led to increased market valuations and strengthened the position of key players. In the past couple of years, companies like Korea Gas Corporation have implemented innovative landfill gas recovery methods to enhance energy efficiency, actively contributing to the country’s renewable energy targets set forth in legislative frameworks and environmental action plans.
South Korea Landfill Gas Market Segmentation Insights
Landfill Gas Market Application Outlook
- Electricity Generation
- Direct Use Applications
- Upgrading to Renewable Natural Gas
Landfill Gas Market Type of Landfill Gas Outlook
- Methane
- Carbon Dioxide
- Trace Gases
Landfill Gas Market Technology Outlook
- Landfill Gas Collection
- Gas Treatment Systems
- Utilization Technologies
Landfill Gas Market End Use Outlook
- Power Plants
- Industrial Use
- Commercial Use
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Report Attribute/Metric Source: |
Details |
MARKET SIZE 2023 |
175.5(USD Million) |
MARKET SIZE 2024 |
186.66(USD Million) |
MARKET SIZE 2035 |
933.32(USD Million) |
COMPOUND ANNUAL GROWTH RATE (CAGR) |
15.756% (2025 - 2035) |
REPORT COVERAGE |
Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends |
BASE YEAR |
2024 |
MARKET FORECAST PERIOD |
2025 - 2035 |
HISTORICAL DATA |
2019 - 2024 |
MARKET FORECAST UNITS |
USD Million |
KEY COMPANIES PROFILED |
Hanwha Energy, Duke Energy, SK E&S, Hyundai Engineering & Construction, Veolia, SNAM, Sungrow Power Supply, GS Engineering and Construction, Korea Electric Power Corporation, LG Energy Solution, Enel Green Power, Korea Gas Corporation, Toyo Engineering Corporation, Doosan Heavy Industries and Construction, Korea Environment Corporation |
SEGMENTS COVERED |
Application, Type of Landfill Gas, Technology, End Use |
KEY MARKET OPPORTUNITIES |
Technological advancements in gas extraction, Increasing demand for renewable energy, Government incentives for waste-to-energy projects, Growing awareness of environmental sustainability, Expanding urban infrastructure and waste management practices |
KEY MARKET DYNAMICS |
increasing energy demand, regulatory support, technological advancements, environmental sustainability focus, waste management challenges |
COUNTRIES COVERED |
South Korea |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) :
The South Korea Landfill Gas Market is expected to be valued at 186.66 million USD in 2024.
By 2035, the South Korea Landfill Gas Market is projected to reach 933.32 million USD.
The market is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 15.756% from 2025 to 2035.
In 2024, the Electricity Generation segment is expected to dominate with a market value of 80.0 million USD.
The Direct Use Applications segment is projected to reach a market value of 300.0 million USD by 2035.
Key players include Hanwha Energy, Duke Energy, SK E&S, and Veolia, among others.
The Upgrading to Renewable Natural Gas segment is expected to be valued at 46.66 million USD in 2024.
The Electricity Generation segment is projected to grow to 400.0 million USD by 2035.
Emerging trends and regulatory support create significant opportunities for growth in this market.
The current global energy transition trends are leading to increased investments and interest in landfill gas projects.