From Technology to Strategy: The Evolving Role of Smart Grids and Microgrids in Sustainable Energy Management

Abstract

This study presents a comprehensive bibliometric review of 136 academic publications on smart grids, microgrids, and semiconductor technologies in the context of sustainable energy management. Data were collected from the Web of Science Core Collection and analyzed using VOSviewer to identify intellectual structures, thematic clusters, and research trajectories. The results demonstrate the increasing prominence of semiconductor-enabled solutions in advancing renewable energy integration, grid optimization, and energy storage systems. Five major research themes are identified: renewable energy and smart grid integration; distributed microgrid systems; optimization models; control strategies; and system-level resilience and cybersecurity. The analysis reveals a temporal evolution from foundational engineering (2020–2021) to intelligent, digitally enhanced energy systems (2022–2025), with a growing emphasis on electric mobility, digital twins, and advanced energy management techniques, such as convex optimization. Beyond mapping trends, this study underscores critical research gaps in the non-English literature, multi-database integration, and practical deployment. The findings provide actionable insights for researchers, policymakers, and industry leaders by highlighting technological maturity, real-world applications, and strategic implications for energy transition. By aligning digital intelligence, semiconductor innovation, and sustainable energy goals, this review advances a forward-looking agenda for resilient and equitable energy systems.