Agent-based modelling and simulation (ABMS) is becoming one of the prominent computational modelling approaches for studying community energy systems (CESs) as key elements for the local energy transition. For the first time, this study explores the evolution of ABMS as a research approach to studying CESs through a structured literature review. The study included modelling purposes for its analysis to structure and delve into the details of ABMS. The results showed the domination of technological and economic disciplines while delineating three missing modelling purposes: illustration, analogy and social learning. To demonstrate and make its approach concrete, the evolution of ABMS studying collective energy security is analysed as an example, highlighting exploration and explanation as the initial modelling purposes. Future research avenues are also elaborated on in detail.