Leveraging heterogeneous networks to analyze energy storage systems in power systems and renewable energy research: a scientometric study

Abstract

The transition to renewable energy sources is critical for sustainable development, yet integrating these sources into existing power systems poses significant challenges. Energy Storage Systems (ESS) are essential in enhancing the reliability and efficiency of renewable energy systems. Despite growing research, a comprehensive scientometric analysis mapping development and trends in this field is lacking. This study addresses this gap by conducting a detailed scientometric analysis of power systems and new energy research from 2014 to 2023. The novelty of this study lies in its systematic use of advanced bibliometric tools to provide a thorough analysis of the research landscape. Utilizing 425 research articles from the Web of Science database, the study employs CiteSpace to visualize academic networks, identify research hotspots, and outline current trends. Specific methodologies include burst detection to identify significant shifts in research focus, centrality measurement to determine the influence of key studies, and heterogeneous network analysis to map the interconnectedness of various research themes. The analysis reveals extensive international collaborations, with China leading in publication volume (344 articles) and centrality (0.69), followed by the United States (29 articles, centrality 0.53). Significant contributions come from institutions like North China Electric Power University, China Electric Power Research Institute, and Tsinghua University. The findings underscore the importance of international cooperation and the need for broader geographical representation in this research field. This study provides valuable insights into the evolution and current state of power systems and renewable energy research, offering essential guidance for future research and development. The results highlight the critical role of ESS in the transition to renewable energy and suggest directions for future investigations, particularly focusing on enhancing ESS efficiency and reliability and expanding international research collaborations.