Reciprocating Power Generating Engine Market Size – By Fuel Type, By Rated Power, By Application, By End Use, Analysis, Share, Growth Forecast, 2025 - 2034

Report ID: GMI3386
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Published Date: April 2025
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Report Format: PDF

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Reciprocating Power Generating Engine Market Size

The global reciprocating power generating engine market was valued at USD 12.2 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 17.1 billion by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 3.3% from 2025 to 2034. Growing utilization of these engines in backup power systems, grid stabilization, industrial operation, and distributed power generation facilities will drive the industry trajectory. For reference, according to the International Energy Agency report, global electricity demand rose to approximately 4% in 2024 compared to 2.5% in 2023.
 

Reciprocating Power Generating Engine Market

The start-up speed of these engines, their flexibility, and level of efficiency have made them a preferred solution across industries. Both urban and remote locations are demanding reliable power sources which will improve the overall business landscape. The increased expansion of microgrids and industrial rural electrification projects is streamlining the demand for scalable solutions which in turn will improve product adoption.
 

For instance, the Oya Hybrid Power Station in South Africa integrates 155 MW of solar with 86 MW of wind and 92 MW/242 MWh of battery storage to supply 128 MW of dispatchable power from 5 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. every day.
 

Enterprises and utilities across emerging economies are emphasizing their energy resilience to mitigate downtimes, grid fluctuations, and extreme weather-related events, which in turn will drive the demand for reciprocating engines. In addition, these engines offer fast start capabilities and fuel flexibility which makes them preferred solutions for peaking and standby power applications.
 

The aging power grids along with rapid investment in manufacturing, data centers, oil & gas, and mining sectors are the key parameters strengthening the demand for reliable and efficient power solutions. Moreover, these engines are experiencing substantial growth driven by their robust properties and capability to handle variable loads.
 

For instance, as per the estimation by the US Department of Energy, datacenter power consumption in the US increased from 58 terawatt-hours (TWh) in 2014 to 176 TWh in 2023 with a jaw dropping increase of 203% in a decade.
 

The upcoming tariffs from President Trump in April 2025 are greatly influenced the reciprocating power generating engine market. The inclusion of these components, high precision sensors, control systems, and specialized sensors, contributed to an increase in the production cost for imported reciprocating engine components. The additional excise tax of 10 percent placed on the components in the engine has greatly increased its production cost.
 

Reciprocating Power Generating Engine Market Trends

The industry is observing robust growth propelled by rapid up and down modulation capabilities, especially to balance power grids and for frequency control. Industry dynamics will be influenced by tremendous investment in gas-based infrastructure and adoption of other fuel sources due to lower running costs and emissions.
 

For instance, the U.S. Department of Energy, as part of its 2023 budget spending of roughly USD 150 million, started a Digital Power Generation Integration Project which uses advance sensors and IoT devices for real-time monitoring of power-generating engines, specifically reciprocating ones.
 

These engines are integrated with wind, solar energy, and battery storage systems along with ensuring efficient & reliable operation to minimize emission will positively influence the business growth. In addition, increasing utilization of these units is fueled by modular design of engine systems which permit stepwise increases in productive capability and faster deployment in centralized-scale generation.
 

For instance, the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research subsidized an USD 80.3 million project “Eco-Engine 2023” which seeks to bring together industrial stakeholders and prominent engineering research institutions to reduce engine emissions by 18% and fuel consumption by 10% utilizing advanced catalysts and modernized fuel controls.
 

Ongoing incorporation of IoT and AI technology systems enabling real time monitoring in operations, troubleshoot issues, and conducting predictive maintenance will amplify the industry growth. These engines are gaining substantial surge in underdeveloped regions where grid infrastructure is unreliable, which in turn will stimulate the product demand.
 

For instance, in 2024, the Department of Energy in the U.S. funded a pilot project worth USD 75 million in California that incorporates reciprocating engines into distributed energy systems. The system improved its efficiency by 20% and decreased its downtime by 30% during peak hours, proving dependable, flexible power and improved grid stability while overall costs were lowered.
 

Reciprocating Power Generating Engine Market Analysis

Reciprocating Power Generating Engine Market Size, By Fuel Type, 2022 - 2034 (USD Billion)

  • The reciprocating power generating engine industry was valued at USD 11.2, 11.7, and 12.2 billion in 2022, 2023 and 2024 respectively. Manufacturers are shifting to cleaner combustion processes, implementing exhaust after-treatment systems, and hydrogen-ready engines, thereby encouraging the product expansion.
     
  • Based on fuel type, the market is segmented into gas-fired, diesel-fired, dual fired, and others. The gas-fired reciprocating power generating engine market will project at a faster rate of over 4% till 2034. These engines are gaining momentum propelled by lower carbon emissions and shift toward cleaner energy generation.
     
  • For instance, the U.S. Department of Energy put forth funding in the amount of USD 80 million in 2024. It showed the usefulness of gas fired reciprocating engines within the paradigm of industrial power. The project exhibited improvement in fuel efficiency by 17% and emission reduction of 12% over baseline systems when compared with other systems.
     
  • The diesel-fired reciprocating power generating engine market was valued at over USD 8.5 billion in 2024. Their unparalleled reliability, coupled with the capability for rapid starting has resulted in their use in data centers, hospitals, and military installations.
     
  • For reference, in 2024, the European diesel system modernization project in Eastern Europe, which was subsidized by the European Commission, greatly enhanced system dependability at the peripheral power plant installations. This project also achieved 13 percent improvement in energy efficiency and almost 10 percent savings in maintenance expenditure.
     
  • The dual-fuel reciprocating power generating engines market is anticipated to exceed USD 500 million by 2034. These engines are a versatile combustion system that can function with liquid or gaseous fuels including diesel and natural gas. Their capability in providing enhanced economic advantages, operational agility, and a competitive edge for power generation, utilities, and remote facilities.
     

Reciprocating Power Generating Engine Market Revenue Share, By Rated Power, 2024

  • Based on rated power, the industry is segmented into 0.5 MW - 1 MW, > 1 MW - 2 MW, > 2 MW - 3.5 MW, > 3.5 MW - 5 MW, > 5 MW - 7.5 MW, > 7.5 MW. The > 1 MW - 2 MW rated power reciprocating power generating engines accounted for over 35.3% market share in 2024. These capacity are an ideal solutions for peaking utility function, large commercial buildings, industrial cogeneration, and distribution generation, thereby drivign the business dynamics.
     
  • The 0.5 MW - 1 MW rated power reciprocating power generating engines market was valued at over USD 3 billion in 2024. Substantial demand for reliable backup power in association with cost effective power solution for small to mid-range facilities will bolster the industry scenario.
     
  • For instance, in 2023, a 7.5 MW reciprocating engine project was started in Tennant Creek, Australia under GE’s gas engine technology program. Moreover, the 35% increase in operational efficiency and the 27 percent reduction in emissions relative to previous systems, is an accomplishment of the project.
     
  • The > 2 MW - 3.5 MW rated power reciprocating power generating engines market size cross USD 3.5 billion by 2034. Burgeoning demand of these engines in industries comprising of larges institutional facilities, cement, steel, mining, and chemicals will create favorable business opportunities.
     
  • The > 3.5 MW - 5 MW rated power reciprocating power generating engines market will witness a growth rate of over 4.5% till 2034. Continuous investment to expand urban infrastructure, IT parks, large hospitals, and airports in line with incorporation of renewable energy systems into these systems will boost the product adoption.
     
  • For reference, in 2024, MAN set up 12 MW dual-fuel engines at the UAE’s Ghasha Gas Project, superseding outdated turbines which facilitated the LNG liquefaction process. These units achieved a 25% reduction in CO? emissions compared to diesel during peak demand for ADNOC’s offshore operations.
     
  • The > 5 MW - 7.5 MW rated power reciprocating power generating engines market is projected to hit USD 450 million 2034. Growing need to cater uninterrupted and constant electricity supply, key industry players are epxanding their capability by investment in high capacity engines, which in turn will foster the industry outlook.
     

U.S. Reciprocating Power Generating Engine Market Size, 2022 - 2034  (USD Billion)

  • The U.S. reciprocating power generating engine market was estimated at USD 5, 5.2, and 5.4 billion in 2022, 2023 and 2024 respectively. The nation is witnessing fast expansion which is associated with the increasing infrastructure, energy demand, and occurrence of severe weather conditions.
     
  • For illustration, in 2024, allocated USD 550 million in 2024 for auxiliary power initiatives, including Entergy’s 45 MW natural gas piston engine facility south of Houston which mitigates 80% of storm associated power losses. Other states including California require hybrid systems which are propelling growth in sales for Cummins and Caterpillar by 25% year over year.
     
  • The North America reciprocating power generating engine held around market share of over 40% in 2024. These engines are in high demand owing to increasing climate related disruptions which include hurricanes and wildfires. In addition, these engines provide reliable standby power, energetic start capabilities, and dependable standby power for essential infrastructure systems.
     
  • The Europe reciprocating power generating engine market was valued at over USD 1 billion in 2024. The growing energy costs in association with the stringent efficiency standards make reciprocating engine CHP systems preferred in commercial, industrial, and district heating applications.
     
  • To illustrate, there are RWE’s 60 MW biogas-solar park in Bavaria which shows how the 2024 Energy Transition Act in Germany requires gas engines in all hybrid plants. The use of coal is cut down by 50% due to EU funded projects including Spain's Ebro Delta Microgrid of 24 MW with Wärtsilä engines; 30% of the utilities are mandated due to the strict Stage V EU regulations.
     
  • The Asia Pacific reciprocating power generating engine market is set to reach over USD 3.5 billion by 2034. Rapid expansion of infrastructure and urbanization growth in tandem with supportive government policies toward decentralization power generation solutions will proliferate industry potential.
     
  • The Middle East & Africa reciprocating power generating engine market has dominated revenue share of over 10% in 2024. The ongoing need for standalone and backup power generating engines, particularly in remote and underserved areas along with persistent grid unreliability, frequent outages, and absence of centralized power systems will accelerate the product deployment across the region.
     
  • For reference, in 2024, Saudi Arabia NEOM city will operate off grid electrolysers for green hydrogen production using 50 MW INNIO Jenbacher gas engines, maintaining its goals to achieve 100% renewables through hybrid power systems.
     
  • The Latin America reciprocating power generating engine market will witness a CAGR of over 2.5% in 2034. The increased availability of natural gas as an alternative source of energy is encouraging the use of gas fired reciprocating engines in the region. Moreover, the supportive policies and incentives aimed at reducing the dependency on imported fuels and encouraging the use of domestic fuels will escalate industry dynamics.
     
  • For reference, in Brazil’s 2024 Amazon Energy Pact, 120 MW Wärtsilä 34SG gas engines were installed to substitute hydropower during times of droughts; this provides gas turbine reliable.
     

Reciprocating Power Generating Engine Market Share

  • The top 5 players, including Caterpillar, Wärtsilä, GE Vernova, Rolls-Royce & MAN Energy Solutions together hold a share of about 45% in the reciprocating power generating engine industry. The competition is gaining traction owing to the combination of technologies, fuel adaptability (diesel, gas, dual-fuel), engine dependability, after-marketing service efficacy, and overall efficiency.
     
  • Cummins has expertise in emission compliant engines and power hybrid solutions. In 2024, it provided BP’s Rotterdam Hydrogen Hub (Netherlands) 45 MW QSK95 gas engines which augmented backup power for the electrolyzers, enabling a 90% reduction of NOx emissions. This project is in line with the EU Fit for 55 mandates and aims to balance energy from offshore wind farms using hydrogen ready engines.
     
  • Wärtsilä is a prominent player in medium and large-scale gas and dual fuel engines. Their operations fall within a broad scope of industries which comprises the reciprocating power generating engine industry. To remain competitive, Wärtsilä utilizes high-efficiency, low-emission engines for both flexible and baseload power generation.
     

Reciprocating Power Generating Engine Market Companies

  • For the second quarter of 2024, Caterpillar Inc.’s revenue reached USD 16.5 billion. In 2024, its collaboration with Siemens Energy deployed a partnership of 6 MW Cat Cg260 gas engines at Jurong Data Hub in Singapore, utilizing hybrid microgrids which cut emissions by 35% when compared to diesel engines.
     
  • Wärtsilä is a prominent player in power plants and energy storage systems with a revenue USD 6.2 billion in 2024. Together with Equinor, they undertook a 2024 project installing 50MW Wärtsilä 46TS-DF gas engines at the Arctic LNG terminal in Norway, achieving a 30% reduction of CO2 emissions capturing the LNG-hydrogen blending technique.
     
  • In the year 2024, MAN Energy Solutions reached USD 5.8 billion in revenue, works with dual fuel engines for marine and industrial propulsion. Their 2024 Ghasha Gas Project cooperation with ADNOC in UAE pre-installed 42 MW MAN 18V35/44G TS engines that improved efficiency by 25% and decreased methane slip by 50% as well.
     

Major players operating in the reciprocating power generating engine industry are:

  • Ashok Leyland
  • Briggs & Stratton
  • Caterpillar
  • Cummins
  • Deere & Company
  • Deutz AG
  • Enerflex
  • Escorts Limited
  • GE Vernova
  • Guascor Energy
  • Kawasaki Heavy Industries
  • Kirloskar Oil Engines
  • Kohler Engines
  • MAN Energy Solutions
  • Mitsubishi Heavy Industries
  • Rolls-Royce
  • Scania
  • TRITON DURO
  • Wärtsilä
  • YANMAR HOLDINGS
     

Reciprocating Power Generating Engine Industry News

  • In February 2025, Kohler acquired Enerflex’s hybrid power division for an amount of USD 320 million. The purchase also includes Enerflex's Solar-Diesel Microgrid Platform, which has been operating since 2023 in Australia's Pilbara Mining Region, to improve its renewables-integrated genset lineup.
     
  • In April 2024, Rolls-Royce signed a MOU concerning the development of gas reciprocating engines which “clean” power while capturing greenhouse emissions for sustainable energy solutions. The focus of this memorandum of understanding was the creation of innovative approaches for power generation with carbon dioxide capturing from reciprocating gas engines.
     
  • In September 2024, Caterpillar unveiled the next generation Cat Microgrid Controller with AI driven forecasting capabilities at a 45 MW solar + storage + genset hybrid power plant located in Imperial Valley, California. The facility implements machine learning for fuel dispatch optimization on battery and gas engine (Cat CG260, 15MW) hybrids, achieving 22 percent reduction in fuel consumption compared to traditional control methods.
     
  • In March 2024, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries revealed their S12R-H2 hydrogen-blend reciprocating engine which runs on 50% hydrogen and 50% natural gas. The engine also lowers CO2 emissions by 30% in comparison to diesel gensets. The engine has been piloted at Thailand's Map Ta Phut Industrial Port.
     

The reciprocating power generating engine market research report includes in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates & forecast in terms of volume (Units), Capacity (MW) & revenue (USD Million) from 2021 - 2034, for the following segments:

Market, By Fuel Type

  • Gas-fired
    • 0.5 MW - 1 MW
    • > 1 MW - 2 MW
    • > 2 MW - 3.5 MW
    • > 3.5 MW - 5 MW
    • > 5 MW - 7.5 MW
    • > 7.5 MW
  • Diesel-fired
    • 0.5 MW - 1 MW
    • > 1 MW - 2 MW
    • > 2 MW - 3.5 MW
    • > 3.5 MW - 5 MW
    • > 5 MW - 7.5 MW
    • > 7.5 MW
  • Dual fuel
    • 0.5 MW - 1 MW
    • > 1 MW - 2 MW
    • > 2 MW - 3.5 MW
    • > 3.5 MW - 5 MW
    • > 5 MW - 7.5 MW
    • > 7.5 MW
  • Others
    • 0.5 MW - 1 MW
    • > 1 MW - 2 MW
    • > 2 MW - 3.5 MW
    • > 3.5 MW - 5 MW
    • > 5 MW - 7.5 MW
    • > 7.5 MW

Market, By Rated Power

  • 0.5 MW - 1 MW
  • > 1 MW - 2 MW
  • > 2 MW - 3.5 MW
  • > 3.5 MW - 5 MW
  • > 5 MW - 7.5 MW
  • > 7.5 MW

Market, By Application

  • Industrial
  • CHP
  • Energy & utility
  • Landfill & biogas
  • Oil & gas
  • Others

Market, By End Use

  • Backup
    • 0.5 MW - 1 MW
    • > 1 MW - 2 MW
    • > 2 MW - 3.5 MW
    • > 3.5 MW - 5 MW
    • > 5 MW - 7.5 MW
    • > 7.5 MW
  • Prime power
    • 0.5 MW - 1 MW
    • > 1 MW - 2 MW
    • > 2 MW - 3.5 MW
    • > 3.5 MW - 5 MW
    • > 5 MW - 7.5 MW
    • > 7.5 MW

The above information has been provided for the following regions and countries:

  • North America
    • U.S.
    • Canada
    • Mexico
  • Europe
    • UK
    • France
    • Germany
    • Russia
    • Italy
    • Spain
    • Netherlands
    • Denmark
    • Norway
  • Asia Pacific
    • China
    • India
    • Japan
    • South Korea
    • Australia
    • Thailand
    • Singapore
    • Indonesia
    • Malaysia
  • Middle East & Africa
    • UAE
    • Saudi Arabia
    • Qatar
    • Oman
    • Kuwait
    • Iran
    • Egypt
    • Turkey
    • Jordan
    • South Africa
  • Latin America
    • Brazil
    • Argentina
    • Chile
    • Peru
Authors: Ankit Gupta, Shubham Chaudhary
Frequently Asked Question(FAQ) :
Who are the key players in reciprocating power generating engine market?
Some of the major players in the reciprocating power generating engine industry include Caterpillar, Cummins, Deere & Company, Deutz AG, Enerflex, Escorts Limited, GE Vernova, Guascor Energy, Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Kirloskar Oil Engines.
How much is the U.S. reciprocating power generating engine market worth in 2024?
How big is the reciprocating power generating engine market?
What is the size of diesel-fired segment in the reciprocating power generating engine industry?
Reciprocating Power Generating Engine Market Scope
  • Reciprocating Power Generating Engine Market Size
  • Reciprocating Power Generating Engine Market Trends
  • Reciprocating Power Generating Engine Market Analysis
  • Reciprocating Power Generating Engine Market Share
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    Base Year: 2024

    Companies covered: 20

    Tables & Figures: 50

    Countries covered: 35

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