- The small hydropower market is experiencing consistent growth, driven by its critical role in various high-performance applications such as aluminum alloys, semiconductors, and solar panels. Its thermal stability, conductivity, and mechanical strength make it a versatile material for industries demanding durability and efficiency
- Key factors fueling this growth include the booming electric vehicle market, rising demand for renewable energy technologies, and growing use of lightweight materials in construction and automotive manufacturing. These trends are significantly boosting the need for metallurgical-grade and chemical-grade silicon
- Asia-Pacific leads the global market due to robust industrialization, government initiatives promoting solar energy, and a strong manufacturing base. Countries such as China, India, and South Korea are dominating due to heavy investments in electronics and green energy infrastructure
- For instance, in October 2023, Ferroglobe acquired a high-purity quartz mine in South Carolina to ensure stable supply for its silicon production operations, demonstrating a strategic move to meet rising global demand
- The global small hydropower market is being shaped by innovations such as low-carbon silicon processing, integration of automated production lines, and the increasing focus on circular economy practices. Companies are investing in sustainable sourcing, recycling technologies, and supply chain optimization to gain a competitive edge in this evolving industry
