Simulation and Modelling as Catalysts for Renewable Energy: A Bibliometric Analysis of Global Research Trends

Abstract

This study investigates the application of advanced simulation and modeling technologies to optimize the performance and reliability of renewable energy systems. Given the urgent need to combat climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, integrating renewable energy sources into existing infrastructure is essential. Using bibliometric methods, our research spans from 1979 to 2023, identifying key publications, institutions, and trends. The analysis revealed a significant annual growth rate of 16.78% in interest in simulation and modeling, with a notable surge in published articles, reaching 921 in 2023. This indicates heightened research activity and interest. Our findings highlight that optimization, policy frameworks, and energy management are central themes. Leading journals like Energies, Energy, and Applied Energy play significant roles in disseminating research. Key findings also emphasize the importance of international collaboration, with countries like China, the USA, and European nations playing significant roles. The three-field plot analysis demonstrated interconnections between keywords, revealing that terms like “renewable energy sources”, “optimization”, and “simulation” are central to the research discourse. Core funding agencies, such as the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) and the European Union, heavily support this research. This study underscores the importance of policies and sustainability indicators in promoting renewable energy technologies. These insights emphasize the need for ongoing innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration to achieve a sustainable energy future.