Global perspectives on energy technology assessment and educational pathways for sustainable energy transitions
摘要
Energy technology assessment (ETA) examines the technological, economic, social, and environmental impacts of energy solutions to support sustainable energy transitions. This study applies bibliometric analysis to evaluate the progress, trends, and contributions of ETA research, using data from the Scopus, Web of Science, and Dimensions AI databases. Prominent authors, institutions, and countries contributing to ETA development were identified, with the United States, China, and the United Kingdom emerging as leading contributors. Citation and co-authorship analyses revealed strong collaborations among European and East Asian institutions, while keyword co-occurrence mapping highlighted renewable energy, energy storage, carbon capture, and life-cycle assessment as core research themes. Trends indicate a growing focus on integrating ETA with digital technologies, such as AI-driven modelling and big data analytics, to enhance decision-making for low-carbon systems. The multidisciplinary nature of ETA underscores its potential to inform policy regulations, guide technological innovation, and optimize sustainable energy systems. Policy implications include the need for frameworks enabling the adaptation of ETA tools to develop economies and incentives for industry adoption of cleaner technologies. Future research should explore harmonized methodologies, region-specific ETA applications, and cross-sectoral integration to bridge the gap between research evidence and practical implementation.
Graphical abstract