Global Growth of Refuse-Derived Fuel (RDF/SRF): Advancing Waste Management and Energy Transition

As the world faces growing energy demands and sustainability challenges, Refuse-Derived Fuel (RDF) and Solid Recovered Fuel (SRF) are increasingly seen as viable alternatives to traditional energy sources. These fuels not only help mitigate landfill waste but also offer eco-friendly energy solutions for industries that require significant energy inputs. The global markets for RDF/SRF, particularly in Europe, the U.S., and Asia, are expanding rapidly, spurred by evolving regional strategies and technological innovations.

European Union: Policy Support and Technological Progress

In the European Union, RDF utilization has not yet reached its full potential. A report from the European Investment Bank (EIB) highlights that, while progress in waste management is evident across EU nations, a significant portion of waste remains untapped as a renewable energy resource.

For example, the cement industry in Europe has already replaced 52% of its thermal energy with RDF. With improved quality controls, RDF use could increase to replace up to 85% of fossil fuel demand.

EU policies, including higher waste treatment taxes, incentivize industries to adopt RDF, aiming to reduce both greenhouse gas emissions and dependence on fossil fuels. Furthermore, advancements in plastic chemical recycling are expected to enhance RDF quality, which will further increase its market adoption.

United States: Expanding Market and Overcoming Quality Issues

In the United States, the RDF and SRF market is experiencing robust growth. In 2022, the market was valued at $1.5 billion, and projections suggest it will rise to $2.4 billion by 2030, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.2%. RDF and SRF are increasingly used in cement production, power generation, and other industrial sectors.

Despite this growth, quality control remains a key challenge. Issues such as variations in heat value, moisture content, and the presence of harmful substances affect the stability and consistency of the fuel. To address these challenges, RDF producers are investing in advanced technologies and equipment to improve product reliability.

The U.S. government is actively promoting waste-to-energy initiatives to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and cut greenhouse gas emissions. As a result, the RDF and SRF market in the U.S. is expected to continue its upward trajectory in the coming years.

Asia: Rapid Expansion Amidst Technological and Quality Barriers

In East Asia, the RDF market is evolving quickly, driven by rapid urbanization and the growing volume of waste. Waste-to-energy solutions have become essential for many countries in the region to manage waste effectively.

Southeast Asia is also seeing an increase in waste-to-energy initiatives. For example, Indonesia is building the world’s largest RDF plant, which will process 2,500 tons of waste daily and produce 875 tons of alternative fuel for use in manufacturing and power plants. Singapore is also constructing its first integrated wastewater and waste treatment facility, which is expected to be completed in 2025.

Despite the growing demand for RDF, Asia faces several challenges, including inefficient waste sorting systems and low RDF production efficiency, leading to inconsistent fuel quality. Improving the quality and efficiency of RDF production is essential to further developing the market in this region.

Harden Machinery Ltd. has become a leader in providing RDF solutions globally. The company’s DWS system, used in over 200 projects across various industries such as cement, power, and pulp and paper, enhances RDF quality by removing contaminants and improving combustion stability in industrial kilns.

Through advanced technologies like fine crushing, intelligent air selection, and powerful magnetic separation, Harden ensures high-efficiency RDF that minimizes the impact on industrial operations while supporting sustainable fuel solutions.

Across the globe, RDF and SRF are emerging as key players in addressing the dual challenges of waste management and energy production. The EU is fostering RDF adoption through supportive policies and technological improvements; the U.S. market is expanding despite quality challenges; and Asia is rapidly developing its waste-to-energy infrastructure. Companies like Harden Machinery Ltd. are advancing RDF technologies, further contributing to the maturation of the global RDF supply chain.

With continued technological advancements and policy backing, RDF and SRF will remain crucial components of alternative energy solutions, aiding in waste reduction, energy diversification, and carbon emission reduction goals worldwide.