It has been estimated the global spending on small hydropower projects will total $13.34 billion in 2011, according to a new report.

The Small Hydropower Market report details how renewable energy and greenhouse gas reduction policies can drive the hydropower market into a new era of growth. It also includes financial and capacity forecasts for the seven regional markets: Asia-Pacific, Latin America, North America, Europe, Eurasia, Africa and the Middle East.

The serious need for renewable energy in rural parts of the developing world has led to increased investments in small hydropower developments.