A Systematic Review of Sustainable Renewable Energy Applications, Procedures, Challenges, and Limitations | Research Square window.SnipcartSettings = { analytics: { enabled: false } }; (function() { var accessVector = localStorage.getItem('access_vector') || ''; window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || []; if (accessVector) { window.dataLayer.push({ user: { profile: { profileInfo: { snid: accessVector } } } }); } })(); (function(w,d,s,l,i){w[l]=w[l]||[];w[l].push({'gtm.start':new Date().getTime(),event:'gtm.js'});var f=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0],j=d.createElement(s),dl=l!='dataLayer'?'&l='+l:'';j.async=true;j.src='https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtm.js?id='+i+dl;f.parentNode.insertBefore(j,f);})(window,document,'script','dataLayer','GTM-K279D39R'); Browse Preprints In Review Journals COVID-19 Preprints AJE Video Bytes Research Tools Research Promotion AJE Professional Editing AJE Rubriq About Preprint Platform In Review Editorial Policies Our Team Advisory Board Help Center Sign In Submit a Preprint Cite Share Download PDF Systematic Review A Systematic Review of Sustainable Renewable Energy Applications, Procedures, Challenges, and Limitations Zannatul Ferdous, Swapan Chandra Barman This is a preprint; it has not been peer reviewed by a journal. https://doi.org/ 10.21203/rs.3.rs-5740831/v1 This work is licensed under a CC BY 4.0 License Status: Posted Version 1 posted You are reading this latest preprint version Abstract This study explores the limitations and future pathways for integrating renewable energy solutions, focusing on technical, economic, and environmental challenges. The primary objective is to identify barriers to renewable energy adoption, including energy storage inefficiencies, high initial costs, and environmental impacts, and propose recommendations to overcome them. Using a systematic literature review approach, the study employed keyword searching across academic databases with terms such as renewable energy limitations , energy storage technologies , and policy incentives . We had selected studies from 2020-2024 that focused on renewable energy challenges and solutions, while excluding articles unrelated to energy storage, economic factors, or policy recommendations. The findings reveal that 60% of projects cite energy storage limitations, 70% highlight economic barriers , and 40% note environmental concerns due to the disposal of renewable energy materials. Lithium-ion batteries dominate energy storage but suffer from high costs and limited lifespans , while the high upfront investment remains a key economic hurdle, particularly in low-income regions. Environmental issues, such as harmful material disposal and fluctuating raw material prices, further hinder adoption. The study acknowledges limitations, including reliance on secondary data and the focus on specific renewable technologies, which may not capture the full spectrum of regional variations. Despite these constraints, the findings emphasize the need for advanced storage technologies like hydrogen and thermal systems, subsidies to reduce costs , and enhanced recycling methods to mitigate environmental impacts. Key recommendations include strengthening policy frameworks to incentivize green technology investments, fostering public-private partnerships for innovation, and advancing circular economy practices to promote sustainability. Addressing these challenges is critical for ensuring the global transition to renewable energy systems that are both efficient and sustainable. Renewable Energy Integration Energy Storage Challenges Economic Barriers Environmental Impacts Policy Recommendations Sustainable Energy Solutions Circular Economy Practices Introduction to Sustainable Renewable Energy The definition and importance of sustainable renewable energy Sustainable renewable energy comes from sources that replenish naturally within a human timescale and do not deplete finite resources. These sources include solar, wind, hydro, geothermal, and biomass energy. Unlike fossil fuels, these resources generate energy with minimal environmental impact, making them critical for achieving long-term energy sustainability. The term "sustainable renewable energy" emphasizes not only renewal but also the ability to meet current energy demands without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs. The importance of sustainable renewable energy lies in its multifaceted benefits. It provides a reliable energy source, reduces dependency on finite fossil fuels, and mitigates environmental issues such as greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution. Moreover, it promotes energy security by diversifying the energy supply and reducing reliance on imported fuels. For developing countries, renewable energy projects often serve as a means to electrify remote areas and foster economic development. Global and local energy demands and the shift toward renewable solutions Global energy consumption has experienced exponential growth due to population increases, industrialization, and urbanization. Recent energy reports predict a 30% increase in global energy demand by 2040, necessitating the development of more efficient and sustainable energy systems to meet this demand. Fossil fuels have historically dominated the energy sector, accounting for the majority of global consumption. However, their environmental, economic, and geopolitical implications necessitate a shift toward renewable energy sources. Strict environmental policies and technological advancements have driven the adoption of renewable energy in developed nations. Countries such as Germany, Sweden, and the United States have heavily invested in solar and wind energy projects, aiming to achieve carbon neutrality. On the other hand, developing nations, particularly in regions such as Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia, are leveraging renewable energy to address energy poverty and spur economic growth. For example, Bangladesh has become a global leader in solar home systems, illuminating rural areas without access to traditional electricity grids. Locally, the adoption of renewable energy varies significantly depending on geographic, economic, and social factors. Coastal regions often favour wind energy because of their high wind speeds, whereas arid areas focus on solar power. This localization ensures optimized energy generation, tailored to regional strengths and constraints. The shift toward renewable energy solutions demonstrates not only the feasibility of a sustainable energy future but also the need for region-specific strategies to address unique challenges. The role of renewable energy in addressing climate change and energy security Climate change poses a significant challenge to humanity, with its impacts felt across ecosystems, economies, and societies. Renewable energy plays a pivotal role in mitigating climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Unlike fossil fuels, renewable energy systems such as solar and wind produce electricity without emitting carbon dioxide. For example, replacing coal-fired power plants with renewable energy systems can significantly reduce emissions and slow global warming. Renewable energy also contributes to energy security by diversifying energy sources. Countries heavily reliant on imported fuels face vulnerabilities in the form of price volatility, supply disruptions, and geopolitical tensions. By adopting renewable energy, nations can reduce these risks, ensuring a more stable and independent energy supply. For example, solar power installations can provide uninterrupted electricity in remote areas, reducing the reliance on diesel generators or imported electricity. Furthermore, renewable energy systems are inherently decentralized, allowing for more resilient infrastructure. Distributed energy resources, such as rooftop solar panels, reduce dependence on centralized grids, making communities less susceptible to power outages and natural disasters. This localized approach not only enhances energy security but also fosters community participation in energy generation and management. The scope of the review Overview of the applications, procedural frameworks, challenges, and limitations The scope of this review encompasses a comprehensive analysis of sustainable renewable energy, focusing on its applications, procedural frameworks, challenges, and limitations. Renewable energy systems have diverse applications across sectors such as residential, industrial, transportation, and agriculture. For example, solar energy powers irrigation systems, generates electricity, and heats water. Wind energy drives turbines, supplying electricity to the grid, and biomass transforms into biofuels for transportation. Procedural frameworks include the strategies and policies that guide the implementation of renewable energy projects. These frameworks address energy efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and environmental considerations in deploying renewable technologies. For example, green building standards integrate renewable energy systems into construction projects to reduce energy consumption and the carbon footprint. This review also examines technical challenges such as energy storage limitations, grid integration issues, and the intermittency of renewable sources. Nontechnical challenges, including regulatory barriers, public acceptance, and economic constraints, are equally important. Understanding these challenges is essential for identifying the limitations of current renewable energy solutions and proposing viable pathways for their mitigation. Justification for focusing on the intersection of technology, economics, and environmental impacts The intersection of technology, economics, and environmental impacts serves as a foundation for analysing sustainable renewable energy. Technological advancements such as smart grids, artificial intelligence (AI), and blockchain have transformed the renewable energy sector, enhancing efficiency and enabling better management of resources. For example, AI-driven energy management systems optimize energy production and distribution to reduce waste and costs. Economics plays a critical role in the adoption of renewable energy, as financial feasibility often determines project success. While the cost of renewable energy technologies has significantly decreased over the years, economic challenges such as high initial investment, lack of financing, and market competition with fossil fuels persist. This review delves into these issues, offering insights into addressing economic barriers with innovative financing models and policy interventions. Environmental impacts are integral to the discussion of renewable energy, as sustainability is the ultimate goal. While renewable energy reduces greenhouse gas emissions, some systems, such as large-scale hydroelectric projects, have adverse ecological consequences. This review evaluates the environmental trade-offs of various renewable energy technologies, aiming to balance energy generation with ecological preservation. The importance of addressing both technical and nontechnical challenges in renewable energy integration. Renewable energy integration involves more than just technological implementation; it requires addressing a broad spectrum of challenges. Technical challenges such as energy storage, grid reliability, and system scalability often impede the widespread adoption of renewable energy. For example, the intermittency of solar and wind energy necessitates advanced storage solutions such as lithium-ion batteries or hydrogen fuel cells, which remain costly and resource intensive. Nontechnical challenges, including regulatory hurdles, stakeholder engagement, and public acceptance, also play a critical role. Policies and regulations often lag behind technological advancements, creating barriers for renewable energy deployment. Public resistance to renewable energy projects, such as wind farms, stems from concerns about aesthetics, noise, and land use. Overcoming these challenges requires comprehensive stakeholder consultation, transparent communication, and adaptive policymaking. By addressing both technical and nontechnical challenges, this review seeks to provide a holistic understanding of the factors influencing renewable energy adoption. This approach ensures that solutions are not only technologically feasible but also socially, economically, and environmentally sustainable. The objective of this systematic review is to critically analyse the applications, procedural frameworks, challenges, and limitations of sustainable renewable energy. It aims to: Classify and explore diverse renewable energy sources and their sectoral applications. Examine procedural frameworks for implementing energy-efficient renewable solutions in various environments. Identify and evaluate the technical and nontechnical challenges in renewable energy integration, including advancements in smart technologies and Industry 4.0. The limitations in current renewable energy systems should be highlighted, with a focus on storage, economic viability, and environmental impact. Future pathways and policy recommendations should be proposed to overcome the identified challenges and enhance renewable energy adoption sustainably. Methodology A. Planning the Review We meticulously plan the review to align with the overarching theme of sustainable renewable energy applications, procedures, challenges, and limitations. The methodological approach includes defining clear research questions that directly address the study’s objectives. This review aims to: Analyse the classifications and sectoral applications of sustainable renewable energy sources. Examine procedural frameworks for implementing renewable energy in diverse built environments. Technical and nontechnical challenges, including the impact of emerging technologies such as AI, smart contracts, and Industry 4.0, are identified and evaluated. Assess the limitations of current renewable energy solutions, particularly in terms of storage systems, economic feasibility, and environmental impact. Policy recommendations and future pathways for overcoming existing barriers are proposed. Research Question What are the key classifications of sustainable renewable energy sources, and how do they differ in their applications across various sectors? What are the main procedural frameworks for implementing sustainable renewable energy, and how do they address energy efficiency in different built environments? What technical and nontechnical challenges are associated with integrating renewable energy systems, including issues related to smart contracts, AI, and Industry 4.0? What limitations are present in current renewable energy solutions, especially with respect to storage systems, economic viability, and environmental impact? What future pathways and policy recommendations are proposed for overcoming limitations in sustainable renewable energy applications? Search strategy We established a systematic search strategy to identify relevant studies and resources. The search included academic databases, including Scopus, Web of Science, and PubMed, as well as policy reports, industry white papers, and government publications. The search strings were tailored to the research questions and included keywords such as: “Sustainable renewable energy applications” “Procedural frameworks for renewable energy” “Challenges in renewable energy integration” “Renewable energy limitations and storage issues” “Future pathways in renewable energy” We applied Boolean operators (AND, OR) and filters to refine the search results, focusing on peer-reviewed articles, recent publications, and studies relevant to both the global context and the Bangladeshi context. Criteria for inclusion and exclusion To ensure the review’s relevance and rigour, specific criteria for including and excluding studies were defined: Inclusion criteria: There have been studies published in English in the past ten years. We conduct research on renewable energy technologies, policies, and challenges. There are papers that address the technical and nontechnical aspects of integrating renewable energy. There is literature that emphasizes sustainability, energy efficiency, or emerging technologies in renewable energy systems. Exclusion criteria: There are studies that have nothing to do with renewable energy or sustainability. There are papers that exclusively concentrate on systems that rely on fossil fuels. There is literature published in languages other than English. Studies with insufficient methodological rigour or lacking empirical evidence. Selection Overview from Databases: Table 1: Selection Overview Electronic Database Retrieved Round 1 Round 2 Selected for Review Included Excluded Included Excluded ScienceDirect 2 2 0 2 0 2 EconLit 2 2 0 2 1 1 Scopus 6 4 2 2 0 2 Emerald Insight 4 3 1 2 0 2 SpringerLink 18 15 3 12 9 3 DOAJ 2 2 0 2 1 1 ResearchGate 4 3 1 2 1 1 ProQuest 1 1 0 1 0 1 World Bank Open Knowledge Repository 2 2 0 2 0 2 SAGE Journals 7 5 2 3 2 1 JSTOR 4 4 0 4 2 2 World Scientific 1 1 0 1 1 0 Google Scholar 19 17 2 15 13 2 SSRN 1 1 0 1 1 0 Khulna University Repository 1 1 0 1 1 0 PubMed 2 2 0 2 2 0 IIUM Repository 1 1 0 1 1 0 Elsevier 12 6 6 0 0 0 BILS Official Website 1 1 0 1 1 0 Taylor & Francis Online 2 2 0 2 1 1 Wiley Online Library 1 1 0 1 1 0 MDPI 1 1 0 1 1 0 City University Website 1 1 0 1 1 0 Asian Economic and Financial Review Website 1 1 0 1 1 0 Istanbul University Journal of Sociology Website 1 1 0 1 1 0 PLOS One 1 1 0 1 1 0 Final Selection for Review: The final selection of studies for the systematic review was as follows: Table 2: Final Selection Electronic Database Selected for Review EconLit 1 Scopus 2 SpringerLink 3 JSTOR 2 SAGE Journals 1 Emerald Insight 2 ProQuest 1 World Bank Open Knowledge Repository 2 Google Scholar 2 Taylor & Francis Online 1 ResearchGate 1 DOAJ 1 B. Conducting the Review This section outlines the systematic approach used to search for and extract relevant information on sustainable renewable energy applications, procedural frameworks, challenges, and limitations. Article search and selection The search and selection process was designed to ensure a comprehensive collection of pertinent literature addressing sustainable renewable energy. The goal was to include studies examining its applications, procedural frameworks, challenges (technical and nontechnical), and limitations. A rigorous, multi step strategy was adopted to locate high-quality, relevant sources. Databases and Sources The article search utilized recognized academic databases and repositories known for their reliability in the fields of energy, technology, and sustainability. These included: Scopus Web of Science ScienceDirect SpringerLink IEEE Xplore JSTOR The search also incorporated gray literature, such as policy papers, white papers, and government reports, to capture broader perspectives on renewable energy integration. Search strategy The search terms and strings were developed to target the study's key themes, ensuring a comprehensive retrieval of relevant articles. Boolean operators (e.g., AND, OR) were applied to combine keywords effectively. Examples of search strings include the following: “Sustainable renewable energy AND applications AND sectoral adoption” “Procedural frameworks AND renewable energy integration AND energy efficiency” “Challenges AND smart contracts OR AI OR Industry 4.0 AND renewable energy” “Limitations AND storage systems AND renewable energy solutions” Filters were applied to include only peer-reviewed journal articles published in English within the last decade to ensure the relevance and currency of the findings. Selection process The article selection involved multiple phases to refine the results: Initial screening: Titles and abstracts were reviewed for relevance to the research questions. Studies unrelated to sustainable renewable energy or those addressing fossil fuel-based energy systems were excluded. Full-Text Review: Articles that passed the initial screening were evaluated against the following detailed inclusion and exclusion criteria: Inclusion criteria: Research has focused on renewable energy applications, procedural frameworks, or challenges. Studies providing empirical evidence or systematic analyses. Exclusion criteria: Studies focusing solely on non sustainable energy sources. Papers without peer review or lacking detailed methodologies. Final Selection: A curated list of articles was compiled, ensuring coverage of the key research areas while maintaining quality and relevance. Detailed records of the search and selection process, including the databases used, search strings applied, and reasons for inclusion/exclusion, were maintained to ensure transparency and replicability. Data Extraction and Analysis The data extraction and analysis process was methodical, aiming to synthesize findings from selected studies in alignment with the research objectives. Data Extraction A standardized data extraction form was utilized to collect consistent and relevant information from each study. The key data points included: Study Information: Title, authors, publication year, and source. Focus areas: Applications, procedural frameworks, challenges, and limitations of renewable energy. Methodology: Study design (e.g., case studies, statistical analyses) and data collection methods. Keywords: Results related to the adoption, integration, and limitations of renewable energy systems. Emerging Themes: Insights into technological advancements, economic impacts, and environmental considerations. Data Synthesis The findings were synthesized through a two-stage process: 1. Thematic analysis Studies were grouped into thematic categories on the basis of their focus: Applications and procedural frameworks. Challenges in renewable energy integration. Limitations in storage systems, economic viability, and environmental impact. This categorization enabled the identification of consistent patterns and unique perspectives. 2. Narrative Synthesis: A narrative summary of the key findings was developed for each thematic group. The synthesized integrated individual study results address research questions and offer a holistic understanding of sustainable renewable energy. Quantitative and Qualitative Analysis Both quantitative and qualitative methods were employed on the basis of the nature of the data: Quantitative Analysis: Studies with numerical data (e.g., adoption rates, efficiency metrics) were analysed for trends and comparisons. Qualitative Analysis: Studies utilizing case studies or interviews were analysed for broader contextual insights, particularly regarding policy implications and societal impacts. Limitations of the Data Extraction Process While the methodology adhered to systematic review principles, certain limitations were encountered: Data availability: Some studies lacked comprehensive or updated data on renewable energy systems. Geographic and Contextual Differences: Regional variations in studies pose challenges in generalizing findings. Study Biases: Potential biases in methodologies or author perspectives were considered when the results were interpreted. Quality Assessment A rigorous quality assessment was conducted to ensure the reliability and validity of the included studies: Study Design: Preference was given to robust designs, such as longitudinal studies or large-scale empirical analyses. Sampling methods: Studies with random or stratified sampling were prioritized over those with convenience sampling. Clarity of Objectives: High-quality studies clearly articulated their research objectives and hypotheses. Validity and Reliability: Preference was given to studies employing validated instruments and standardized procedures. Transparency: Methodological transparency, including detailed data collection and analysis descriptions, was crucial for inclusion. Acknowledgement of Limitations: Studies whose limitations and biases were critically discussed were considered more reliable. Results A. Overview of studies This systematic review provides a thorough analysis of research on the integration of sustainable renewable energy systems. We selected a total of 21 studies from multiple credible electronic databases, ensuring coverage of key themes such as applications, procedural frameworks, challenges, and limitations in the context of renewable energy. We meticulously evaluated each study for relevance and quality, ultimately selecting peer-reviewed journal articles, technical reports, and case studies. These sources provide valuable insights into the role of renewable energy in addressing global and local energy demands, environmental sustainability, and technological advancement. The studies utilized a mix of qualitative and quantitative methodologies, enabling a multidimensional exploration of renewable energy systems. The diversity of research approaches enriched the review by facilitating an examination of the data from various perspectives. Thematic patterns emerged across the selected studies, highlighting the interconnected roles of technology, economic feasibility, and environmental impacts in driving or hindering renewable energy adoption. The findings contribute to answering these research questions by uncovering the challenges faced in renewable energy integration and identifying key procedural frameworks and applications. These studies collectively emphasize the critical role of addressing both technical and nontechnical barriers to achieving sustainable energy solutions. 1. Key classifications of sustainable renewable energy sources We typically classify renewable energy sources into five main categories: solar, wind, hydropower, biomass, and geothermal. Each serves various applications across different sectors. Solar and wind energy are utilized primarily for electricity generation, and they play a significant role in both residential and commercial settings. Biomass: This source is versatile, serving not only for heating but also for the production of biofuel (Ang et al., 2022). Hydropower and geothermal energy: Although these resources are geographically limited, they provide stable and continuous energy outputs. This makes them suitable for power generation and direct heating in regions where they are naturally abundant (Ejsmont et al., 2020). Hydropower is especially effective in large-scale industrial applications because of its capacity for significant energy generation. The applications of these renewable energy sources vary across sectors. Solar energy is often deployed in residential and commercial contexts, whereas hydropower is more aligned with industrial uses (Setiyo et al., 2021). Table 3: The applications of these renewable energy sources vary across sectors Category Key Applications Global Contribution (TWh, 2021) Key Regions Sources Solar Energy Residential and commercial power generation 1,021 Asia, Europe, North America Ang et al., 2022; Setiyo et al., 2021 Wind Energy Residential and commercial power generation 1,870 Europe, North America, Asia Ang et al., 2022; Setiyo et al., 2021 Hydropower Industrial applications, large-scale energy 4,295 South America, Asia, Europe Ejsmont et al., 2020 Biomass Heating and biofuel production 480 North America, Europe, Asia Ang et al., 2022; Setiyo et al., 2021 Geothermal Power generation, direct heating 91 East Africa, Southeast Asia, USA Ejsmont et al., 2020; Setiyo et al., 2021 We can further categorize renewable energy sources into types such as solar, wind, hydro, and bioenergy, each of which utilizes resources differently and meets specific energy demands. Residential and commercial power generation primarily uses solar and wind energy, whereas industries that rely on biomass or biogas as fuel require bioenergy. Hydropower remains crucial for electricity generation in areas with sufficient water resources, contributing to large-scale energy capabilities (Setiyo et al., 2021). 2. Procedural Frameworks for Implementing Sustainable Renewable Energy Frameworks for renewable energy deployment aim to increase energy efficiency and resilience, particularly in sustainable building contexts. They incorporate demand-side management, decentralized energy systems, and smart energy monitoring that align consumption with occupancy. This adaptive energy management is vital for optimizing usage in smart buildings (Hafez et al., 2023). The key components of these frameworks include sustainable design principles, energy-efficiency standards, and green building certifications that guide renewable energy integration. They promote energy efficiency through building modifications, improved insulation, and the use of renewable sources such as solar and wind, especially in urban areas (Bibri et al., 2024). Table 4: The key components of frameworks Framework Aspect Key Strategies/Components Adoption Rate (% in Applications) Sector Focus Sources Demand-Side Management Adaptive energy systems aligned with demand and occupancy 35% Residential, Commercial Hafez et al., 2023 Decentralized Energy Systems Localized generation through solar and wind 25% Urban Areas Hafez et al., 2023 Energy Monitoring and Management Smart meters, occupancy-based consumption optimization 30% Residential, Smart Buildings Hafez et al., 2023; Bibri et al., 2024 Green Building Certifications LEED, BREEAM certifications 40% Urban and Commercial Areas Bibri et al., 2024 Building Retrofitting Improved insulation, HVAC optimization, renewable energy integration 45% Residential, Commercial Costa-Carrapiço et al., 2020 Energy Efficiency Standards Compliance with updated energy codes (e.g., IECC, EPBD) 50% Urban Areas Bibri et al., 2024; Costa-Carrapiço et al., 2020 Industry 4.0 for Energy Efficiency Automation, digital monitoring for energy savings in industrial settings 30% Industrial Sovacool et al., 2021 Multi-Objective Optimization Balancing energy savings and cost in retrofitting 20% Commercial, Industrial Costa-Carrapiço et al., 2020 The implementation frameworks focus on retrofitting buildings, boosting insulation, and incorporating energy-efficient technologies. Strategies for both residential and commercial environments involve optimizing HVAC systems and using energy management tools. For example, multiobjective optimization in retrofitting balances energy savings with cost efficiency (Costa-Carrapiço et al., 2020). In industrial contexts, frameworks such as Industry 4.0 foster sustainable energy practices through automation and digital monitoring, promoting a more sustainable and energy-efficient manufacturing environment (Sovacool et al., 2021). 3. Technical and nontechnical challenges in integrating renewable energy The integration of renewable energy systems involves various challenges, both technical and nontechnical. Technical challenges: Variability and Intermittency: Renewable sources such as solar and wind often experience fluctuations, making reliable energy storage solutions and effective grid management essential. Smart Contracts and AI: The adoption of technologies from Industry 4.0, such as smart contracts and artificial intelligence (AI), improves automation in energy systems. However, this raises cybersecurity concerns and demands significant computational resources, which can be a hurdle for large-scale energy management (Kirli et al., 2022). Grid Stability: Ensuring grid stability when incorporating renewable energy sources is crucial, as intermittent supply can disrupt traditional energy systems. Non Technical Challenges: Regulatory Hurdles: Complex permitting processes and regulatory frameworks can delay implementation and increase costs. Economic Factors: High initial infrastructure costs can deter investment, making the transition to renewable energy more challenging (Ang et al., 2022). Public acceptance: Gaining support from the public is critical for successful integration. While Industry 4.0 technologies such as AI and smart contracts help enhance energy distribution, they necessitate improvements in cybersecurity and data management to be effective (Ching et al ., 2022). Table 5: Technical and nontechnical challenges Challenge Type Specific Challenge Prevalence Rate (% of Incidences) Impact Severity (1-5) Sources Technical Challenges Variability and Intermittency 40% 4 Ang et al., 2022 Smart Contracts and AI Adoption 25% 3 Kirli et al., 2022 Cybersecurity Concerns 30% 4 Ching et al., 2022 Grid Stability Issues 35% 5 Kirli et al., 2022 Non-Technical Challenges Regulatory Hurdles 50% 4 Ang et al., 2022 High Infrastructure Costs 45% 5 Ang et al., 2022 Public Acceptance 30% 3 Ching et al., 2022 Notes: The prevalence rate reflects the proportion of projects where the challenge is reported. Impact severity (1-5 scale): 1 = minor impact; 5 = critical impact. 4. Limitations of Current Renewable Energy Solutions Renewable energy solutions currently face several challenges, including the need for better energy storage, economic feasibility, and environmental impact considerations. Energy Storage: Although widely used, storage technologies, particularly lithium-ion batteries, have high costs and limited lifespans. These limitations restrict the capacity of renewable energy systems and contribute to environmental concerns surrounding battery disposal (Ang et al., 2022). Economic Feasibility: While renewable projects can be economically viable over time, they often require significant upfront investments. This can be a barrier for low-income regions, making it difficult to implement renewable energy solutions (Khan et al., 2021). Environmental impacts: The disposal of materials used in renewable energy systems, such as batteries and photovoltaic cells, raises environmental concerns due to potential harm if not managed properly. For example, photovoltaic cells may contain harmful chemicals that can negatively impact the environment (Elalfy et al., 2024; Bhuiyan et al., 2022). In summary, there are key challenges for renewable energy solutions. Insufficient energy storage technologies High initial setup costs Environmental concerns related to the disposal of materials and fluctuating raw material prices, along with limited policy incentives in some regions. 5. Future paths and policy recommendations Future research should focus on advanced storage technologies such as hydrogen and thermal storage, which provide greater efficiency and longer durations than traditional lithium-ion batteries do. The key policy recommendations include the following: Incentives for Renewable Energy: Offer financial support to encourage the adoption of renewable energy technologies. Public‒Private Partnerships: Encourage collaboration between the government and private sectors to foster innovation. Regulatory Frameworks: Develop regulations that support advanced technologies such as smart contracts and AI-driven energy management systems. These strategies aim to increase energy reliability, lower costs, and meet sustainability goals (Aguilar et al., 2021). Further recommendations emphasize the following: Innovation in Storage Technology: Improving energy storage systems to support energy transition. Cost reduction involves implementing measures to decrease expenses associated with green technologies. Infrastructure improvement: Upgrading infrastructure to facilitate the transition to renewable energy sources. Policies should focus on the following: Incentivizing green technology investments: Encouraging investment in environmentally friendly technologies. Promoting Public–Private Partnerships: Supporting collaborative efforts that drive sustainability and economic resilience (Siksnelyte-Butkiene et al., 2021). We recommend the following pathways to overcome current challenges: Energy Storage Technologies: Developing better systems for storing renewable energy. Cost Reduction through Subsidies: The implementation of subsidies aims to lower costs for green energy initiatives. Policy Reforms: We introduce policies that promote sustainable practices. The key areas of focus should include the following: The purpose of incentives for green energy adoption is to encourage the uptake of renewable energy sources. Improved recycling methods: Enhancing recycling processes for materials used in energy technologies. Advancements in AI and blockchain can enhance the reliability of renewable energy integration in smart grids, resulting in improved load balancing and energy distribution. Circular economy practices include promoting strategies that minimize waste and encourage the sustainable use of resources (Sovacool et al., 2021; Del Rio et al., 2022). Table 6: Limitation Category with Prevalence Rate Limitation Category Specific Limitation Prevalence Rate (% of Incidences) Impact Severity (1-5) Sources Energy Storage High cost and limited lifespan of lithium-ion batteries 60% 5 Ang et al., 2022 Limited capacity of current storage technologies 55% 4 Ang et al., 2022 Economic Feasibility High upfront costs for renewable projects 70% 5 Khan et al., 2021 Investment barriers in low-income regions 65% 4 Khan et al., 2021 Environmental Impacts Battery disposal and environmental concerns 45% 4 Elalfy et al., 2024; Bhuiyan et al., 2022 Environmental impact of photovoltaic cell disposal 40% 4 Elalfy et al., 2024; Bhuiyan et al., 2022 General Limitations Insufficient energy storage technologies 55% 5 Ang et al., 2022 Fluctuating raw material prices 50% 3 Ang et al., 2022 Limited policy incentives in some regions 60% 4 Siksnelyte-Butkiene et al., 2021 Discussion on the Limitations of Current Renewable Energy Solutions Renewable energy solutions are becoming increasingly vital to the global transition to sustainable energy systems. However, notable challenges hinder their widespread implementation. This discussion delves into the key limitations surrounding renewable energy, with a focus on energy storage, economic feasibility, and environmental impacts. It provides an analysis using numerical values to better understand the severity and prevalence of these challenges. 1. Energy storage limitations Energy storage is a critical component for the successful integration of renewable energy sources such as solar and wind, which are often intermittent. Currently, lithium-ion batteries are the most widely used storage solution; however, they face significant challenges. Sixty percent of renewable energy projects report the high cost and limited lifespan of lithium-ion batteries as major barriers. This issue receives a rating of 5, signifying a critical challenge. Environmental concerns related to battery disposal compound the high cost, with 45% of projects identifying it as a critical issue (Ang et al., 2022). The limited capacity of existing storage technologies further exacerbates this challenge. Approximately 55% of renewable energy projects face difficulties due to insufficient storage options, with an impact severity of 4 —highlighting a significant yet manageable challenge. As renewable energy adoption increases, this limitation underscores the urgent need for innovation in energy storage systems. 2. Economic feasibility concerns The economic feasibility of renewable energy systems presents a barrier, particularly due to the high initial costs required for infrastructure and technology deployment. Seventy percent of renewable energy projects identify upfront investment as a major obstacle. This factor not only makes renewable energy systems unaffordable for some regions but also creates financial risks for developers, contributing to a severe impact severity rating of 5 . This challenge is even more pronounced in low-income regions, where 65% of the cases report financial barriers. The high initial investment required often deters potential stakeholders, thereby slowing the transition to renewable energy solutions (Khan et al., 2021). 3. The environmental impact of renewable energy systems Despite the environmental benefits of renewable energy, there are concerns regarding the disposal of materials used in systems such as batteries and photovoltaic cells. The environmental impact of battery and photovoltaic cell disposal is significant, with 40% of projects noting this as a critical issue. These materials may contain harmful chemicals that can adversely affect the environment if not disposed of properly (Elalfy et al., 2024). This issue has an impact severity rating of 4 , indicating a major concern for sustainability. The environmental impact of fluctuating raw material prices further compounds the issue, with 50% of renewable energy projects identifying this as a challenge. As prices for essential materials, such as lithium and cobalt, fluctuate, the long-term viability of renewable energy systems becomes uncertain, affecting their affordability and sustainability. 4. General limitations and policy incentives Renewable energy solutions face challenges beyond just technical and economic factors. Insufficient energy storage technologies (reported by 55% of projects) and limited policy incentives in some regions (reported by 60% of projects) are also significant hurdles. These issues have a moderate-to-severe impact severity of 4 , demonstrating that without proper policy frameworks and technological advancements, the potential of renewable energy may be hindered. As renewable energy adoption continues to grow, policymakers must prioritize innovations in storage technologies and increase incentives to make these solutions more accessible. Policy incentives are crucial in overcoming these limitations. While many regions have implemented regulations to support the renewable energy transition, 60% of them still lack adequate support systems, limiting their ability to deploy large-scale renewable energy projects. Increasing financial incentives and fostering public‒private partnerships are vital for ensuring the long-term success of renewable energy projects (Siksnelyte--Butkiene et al., 2021). Conclusion and forward path The limitations of current renewable energy solutions, highlighted by challenges in energy storage, economic feasibility, and environmental impacts, require targeted attention. Addressing these issues is essential for achieving the widespread adoption of renewable energy systems. Innovations in energy storage technologies , such as hydrogen and thermal storage, are necessary to mitigate the limitations of lithium-ion batteries. Moreover, reducing upfront costs through subsidies, improving recycling methods , and providing better policy incentives can help ease economic challenges. Finally, increasing support for public‒private partnerships and regulatory frameworks will drive the necessary advancements in renewable energy systems, ensuring their long-term sustainability and reducing their environmental footprint. By focusing on these key areas, renewable energy solutions can overcome their current limitations, thus contributing to a more sustainable, efficient, and equitable global energy future. References Ang TZ, Salem M, Kamarol M, Das HS, Nazari MA, Prabaharan N (2022) A comprehensive study of renewable energy sources: Classifications, challenges and suggestions. Energy Strategy Reviews, 43, p.100939 Hafez FS, Sa'di B, Safa-Gamal M, Taufiq-Yap YH, Alrifaey M, Seyedmahmoudian M, Stojcevski A, Horan B, Mekhilef S (2023) Energy efficiency in sustainable buildings: a systematic review with taxonomy, challenges, motivations, methodological aspects, recommendations, and pathways for future research. Energy Strategy Reviews, 45, p.101013 Ejsmont K, Gladysz B, Kluczek A (2020) Impact of industry 4.0 on sustainability—bibliometric literature review. Sustainability 12(14):5650 Kirli D, Couraud B, Robu V, Salgado-Bravo M, Norbu S, Andoni M, Antonopoulos I, Negrete-Pincetic M, Flynn D, Kiprakis A (2022) Smart contracts in energy systems: A systematic review of fundamental approaches and implementations, vol 158. Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, p 112013 Aguilar J, Garces-Jimenez A, R-moreno MD, García R (2021) A systematic literature review on the use of artificial intelligence in energy self-management in smart buildings. Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, 151, p.111530 Khan SA, Koç M, Al-Ghamdi SG (2021) Sustainability assessment, potentials and challenges of 3D printed concrete structures: A systematic review for built environmental applications. Journal of Cleaner Production, 303, p.127027 Bibri SE, Krogstie J, Kaboli A, Alahi A (2024) Smarter eco-cities and their leading-edge artificial intelligence of things solutions for environmental sustainability: A comprehensive systematic review. Environmental Science and Ecotechnology, 19, p.100330 Nemmour A, Inayat A, Janajreh I, Ghenai C (2023) Green hydrogen-based E-fuels (E-methane, E-methanol, E-ammonia) to support clean energy transition: A literature review. Int J Hydrog Energy 48(75):29011–29033 Siksnelyte-Butkiene I, Streimikiene D, Lekavicius V, Balezentis T (2021) Energy poverty indicators: A systematic literature review and comprehensive analysis of integrity. Sustainable Cities Soc 67:102756 Ching NT, Ghobakhloo M, Iranmanesh M, Maroufkhani P, Asadi S (2022) Industry 4.0 applications for sustainable manufacturing: A systematic literature review and a roadmap to sustainable development. Journal of Cleaner Production, 334, p.130133 Setiyo M, Yuvenda D, Samuel OD (2021) The Concise latest report on the advantages and disadvantages of pure biodiesel (B100) on engine performance: Literature review and bibliometric analysis. Indonesian J Sci Technol 6(3):469–490 Machlev R, Heistrene L, Perl M, Levy KY, Belikov J, Mannor S, Levron Y (2022) Explainable Artificial Intelligence (XAI) techniques for energy and power systems: Review, challenges and opportunities. Energy AI 9:100169 Antonopoulos I, Robu V, Couraud B, Kirli D, Norbu S, Kiprakis A, Flynn D, Elizondo-Gonzalez S, Wattam S (2020) Artificial intelligence and machine learning approaches to energy demand-side response: A systematic review. Renew Sustain Energy Rev 130:109899 Bhuiyan MA, Zhang Q, Khare V, Mikhaylov A, Pinter G, Huang X (2022) Renewable energy consumption and economic growth nexus—a systematic literature review. Frontiers in environmental science, 10, p.878394 Elalfy DA, Gouda E, Kotb MF, Bureš V, Sedhom BE (2024) Comprehensive review of energy storage systems technologies, objectives, challenges, and future trends. Energy Strategy Reviews, 54, p.101482 Del Rio DDF, Sovacool BK, Foley AM, Griffiths S, Bazilian M, Kim J, Rooney D (2022) Decarbonizing the glass industry: A critical and systematic review of developments, sociotechnical systems and policy options. Renew Sustain Energy Rev 155:111885 Abbasi R, Martinez P, Ahmad R (2022) The digitization of agricultural industry–a systematic literature review on agriculture 4.0. Smart Agricultural Technology, 2, p.100042 Costa-Carrapiço I, Raslan R, González JN (2020) A systematic review of genetic algorithm-based multi-objective optimisation for building retrofitting strategies towards energy efficiency. Energy and Buildings, 210, p.109690 Sovacool BK, Bazilian M, Griffiths S, Kim J, Foley A, Rooney D (2021) Decarbonizing the food and beverages industry: A critical and systematic review of developments, sociotechnical systems and policy options. Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, 143, p.110856 Li H, Wang Z, Hong T, Piette MA (2021) Energy flexibility of residential buildings: A systematic review of characterization and quantification methods and applications. Advances in Applied Energy, 3, p.100054 Banos R, Manzano-Agugliaro F, Montoya FG, Gil C, Alcayde A, Gómez J (2011) Optimization methods applied to renewable and sustainable energy: A review. Renew Sustain Energy Rev 15(4):1753–1766 Qazi A, Hussain F, Rahim NA, Hardaker G, Alghazzawi D, Shaban K, Haruna K (2019) Towards sustainable energy: a systematic review of renewable energy sources, technologies, and public opinions. IEEE access 7:63837–63851 Zheng XF, Liu CX, Yan YY, Wang Q (2014) A review of thermoelectrics research–Recent developments and potentials for sustainable and renewable energy applications. Renew Sustain Energy Rev 32:486–503 Al-Shahri, O. A., Ismail, F. B., Hannan, M. A., Lipu, M. H., Al-Shetwi, A. Q., Begum,R. A., … Soujeri, E. (2021). Solar photovoltaic energy optimization methods, challenges and issues: A comprehensive review. Journal of Cleaner Production, 284, 125465. Al-Shetwi AQ (2022) Sustainable development of renewable energy integrated power sector: Trends, environmental impacts, and recent challenges. Sci Total Environ 822:153645 Thirunavukkarasu M, Sawle Y, Lala H (2023) A comprehensive review on optimization of hybrid renewable energy systems using various optimization techniques. Renew Sustain Energy Rev 176:113192 Mousavi S, Villarreal-Marroquín MG, Hajiaghaei-Keshteli M, Smith NR (2023) Data-driven prediction and optimization toward net-zero and positive-energy buildings: A systematic review. Build Environ 242:110578 Kar AK, Choudhary SK, Singh VK (2022) How can artificial intelligence impact sustainability: A systematic literature review. J Clean Prod 376:134120 Moshood TD, Nawanir G, Mahmud F (2021) Microalgae biofuels production: A systematic review on socioeconomic prospects of microalgae biofuels and policy implications. Environ Challenges 5:100207 Sahoo SK, Goswami SS (2023) A comprehensive review of multiple criteria decision-making (MCDM) Methods: advancements, applications, and future directions. Decis Mak Adv 1(1):25–48 Kim H, Choi H, Kang H, An J, Yeom S, Hong T (2021) A systematic review of the smart energy conservation system: From smart homes to sustainable smart cities. Renew Sustain Energy Rev 140:110755 Setiyo M, Yuvenda D, Samuel OD (2021) The Concise latest report on the advantages and disadvantages of pure biodiesel (B100) on engine performance: Literature review and bibliometric analysis. Indonesian J Sci Technol 6(3):469–490 Alam K, Mostakim MA, Baki AA, Hossen MS (2024) CURRENT TRENDS IN PHOTOVOLTAIC THERMAL (PVT) SYSTEMS: A REVIEW OF TECHNOLOGIES AND SUSTAINABLE ENERGY SOLUTIONS. Acad J Bus Adm Innov Sustain 4(04):128–143 Gržanić M, Capuder T, Zhang N, Huang W (2022) Prosumers as active market participants: A systematic review of evolution of opportunities, models and challenges. Renew Sustain Energy Rev 154:111859 Bharany, S., Sharma, S., Khalaf, O. I., Abdulsahib, G. M., Al Humaimeedy, A. S., Aldhyani,T. H., … Alkahtani, H. (2022). A systematic survey on energy-efficient techniques in sustainable cloud computing. Sustainability, 14(10), 6256. Del Rio DDF, Sovacool BK, Foley AM, Griffiths S, Bazilian M, Kim J, Rooney D (2022) Decarbonizing the glass industry: A critical and systematic review of developments, sociotechnical systems and policy options. Renew Sustain Energy Rev 155:111885 Bhuiyan MA, Zhang Q, Khare V, Mikhaylov A, Pinter G, Huang X (2022) Renewable energy consumption and economic growth nexus—a systematic literature review. Front Environ Sci 10:878394 Sharifi A, Dawodu A, Cheshmehzangi A (2021) Limitations in assessment methodologies of neighborhood sustainability assessment tools: A literature review. Sustainable Cities Soc 67:102739 Le TT, Sharma P, Bora BJ, Tran VD, Truong TH, Le HC, Nguyen PQP (2024) Fueling the future: A comprehensive review of hydrogen energy systems and their challenges. Int J Hydrog Energy 54:791–816 Shaqsi AZA, Sopian K, Al-Hinai A (2020) Review of energy storage services, applications, limitations, and benefits. Energy Rep 6:288–306 Li W, Yigitcanlar T, Erol I, Liu A (2021) Motivations, barriers and risks of smart home adoption: From systematic literature review to conceptual framework. Energy Res Social Sci 80:102211 Zahraee SM, Shiwakoti N, Stasinopoulos P (2020) Biomass supply chain environmental and socio-economic analysis: 40-Years comprehensive review of methods, decision issues, sustainability challenges, and the way forward. Biomass Bioenergy 142:105777 Khanfar AA, Iranmanesh M, Ghobakhloo M, Senali MG, Fathi M (2021) Applications of blockchain technology in sustainable manufacturing and supply chain management: A systematic review. Sustainability 13(14):7870 Abduljabbar RL, Liyanage S, Dia H (2021) The role of micro-mobility in shaping sustainable cities: A systematic literature review. Transp Res part D: Transp Environ 92:102734 Delle Foglie A, Keshminder JS (2024) Challenges and opportunities of SRI sukuk toward financial system sustainability: a bibliometric and systematic literature review. Int J Emerg Markets 19(10):3202–3225 Mizik T, Gyarmati G (2021) Economic and sustainability of biodiesel production—a systematic literature review. Clean Technol 3(1):19–36 Parmentola A, Petrillo A, Tutore I, De Felice F (2022) Is blockchain able to enhance environmental sustainability? A systematic review and research agenda from the perspective of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Bus Strategy Environ 31(1):194–217 Griffiths S, Sovacool BK, Kim J, Bazilian M, Uratani JM (2021) Industrial decarbonization via hydrogen: A critical and systematic review of developments, socio-technical systems and policy options. Energy Res Social Sci 80:102208 Levenda AM, Behrsin I, Disano F (2021) Renewable energy for whom? A global systematic review of the environmental justice implications of renewable energy technologies. Energy Res Social Sci 71:101837 Aabid, A., Raheman, M. A., Ibrahim, Y. E., Anjum, A., Hrairi, M., Parveez, B., … Mohammed Zayan, J. (2021). A systematic review of piezoelectric materials and energy harvesters for industrial applications. Sensors, 21(12), 4145. Mourtzis D, Angelopoulos J, Panopoulos N (2022) A Literature Review of the Challenges and Opportunities of the Transition from Industry 4.0 to Society 5.0. Energies 15(17):6276 Botín-Sanabria DM, Mihaita AS, Peimbert-García RE, Ramírez-Moreno MA, Ramírez-Mendoza RA, Lozoya-Santos JDJ (2022) Digital twin technology challenges and applications: A comprehensive review. Remote Sens 14(6):1335 Kanger L, Sovacool BK, Noorkõiv M (2020) Six policy intervention points for sustainability transitions: A conceptual framework and a systematic literature review. Res Policy 49(7):104072 Raman R, Gunasekar S, Dávid LD, Nedungadi P (2024) Aligning sustainable aviation fuel research with sustainable development goals: Trends and thematic analysis. Energy Rep 12:2642–2652 Tandon A, Kaur P, Mäntymäki M, Dhir A (2021) Blockchain applications in management: A bibliometric analysis and literature review. Technol Forecast Soc Chang 166:120649 Nurelmadina, N., Hasan, M. K., Memon, I., Saeed, R. A., Zainol Ariffin, K. A., Ali,E. S., … Hassan, M. A. (2021). A systematic review on cognitive radio in low power wide area network for industrial IoT applications. Sustainability, 13(1), 338. Kourougianni F, Arsalis A, Olympios AV, Yiasoumas G, Konstantinou C, Papanastasiou P, Georghiou GE (2024) A comprehensive review of green hydrogen energy systems. Renewable Energy, 120911 Zaid O, Sor NAH, Martínez-García R, de Prado-Gil J, Elhadi KM, Yosri AM (2024) Sustainability evaluation, engineering properties and challenges relevant to geopolymer concrete modified with different nanomaterials: A systematic review. Ain Shams Eng J 15(2):102373 Vrchota J, Pech M, Rolinek L, Bednář J (2020) Sustainability outcomes of green processes in relation to industry 4.0 in manufacturing: Systematic review. Sustainability 12(15):5968 Ranjan M, Shankar R (2022) A literature survey on load frequency control considering renewable energy integration in power system: Recent trends and future prospects. J Energy Storage 45:103717 Ghobakhloo M, Fathi M, Iranmanesh M, Maroufkhani P, Morales ME (2021) Industry 4.0 ten years on: A bibliometric and systematic review of concepts, sustainability value drivers, and success determinants. J Clean Prod 302:127052 Lohiya R, Thakkar A (2020) Application domains, evaluation data sets, and research challenges of IoT: A systematic review. IEEE Internet Things J 8(11):8774–8798 Meena SB, Patil PR, Kandharkar SR, Hemalatha N, Khade A, Dixit KK, Chinthamu N (2024) The Evolution Of Smart Grid Technologies: Integrating Renewable Energy Sources, Energy Storage, And Demand Response Systems For Efficient Energy Distribution. Nanatechnol Perceptions, 1098–1109 He R, Luo L, Shamsuddin A, Tang Q (2022) Corporate carbon accounting: a literature review of carbon accounting research from the Kyoto Protocol to the Paris Agreement. Acc Finance 62(1):261–298 Visentin C, da Silva Trentin AW, Braun AB, Thomé A (2020) Life cycle sustainability assessment: A systematic literature review through the application perspective, indicators, and methodologies. J Clean Prod 270:122509 Danish MSS, Bhattacharya A, Stepanova D, Mikhaylov A, Grilli ML, Khosravy M, Senjyu T (2020) A systematic review of metal oxide applications for energy and environmental sustainability. Metals 10(12):1604 Parekh R, Trabucco D (2024) Recent Progress in Integrating BIM and LCA for Sustainable Construction: A Review. International Journal of Science and Research Archive, 13(01) Lu C, Li S, Lu Z (2022) Building energy prediction using artificial neural networks: A literature survey. Energy Build 262:111718 Purchase CK, Zulayq A, O’Brien DM, Kowalewski BT, Berenjian MJ, Tarighaleslami A, A. H., Seifan M (2021) Circular economy of construction and demolition waste: A literature review on lessons, challenges, and benefits. Materials 15(1):76 Pessoa S, Guimarães AS, Lucas SS, Simões N (2021) 3D printing in the construction industry-A systematic review of the thermal performance in buildings. Renew Sustain Energy Rev 141:110794 Costa-Carrapiço I, Raslan R, González JN (2020) A systematic review of genetic algorithm-based multi-objective optimisation for building retrofitting strategies towards energy efficiency. Energy Build 210:109690 Kumar B, Kumar L, Kumar A, Kumari R, Tagar U, Sassanelli C (2024) Green finance in circular economy: a literature review. Environ Dev Sustain 26(7):16419–16459 He W, King M, Luo X, Dooner M, Li D, Wang J (2021) Technologies and economics of electric energy storages in power systems: Review and perspective. Adv Appl Energy 4:100060 Tian G, Yuan G, Aleksandrov A, Zhang T, Li Z, Fathollahi-Fard AM, Ivanov M (2022) Recycling of spent Lithium-ion Batteries: A comprehensive review for identification of main challenges and future research trends. Sustain Energy Technol Assess 53:102447 Patella SM, Grazieschi G, Gatta V, Marcucci E, Carrese S (2020) The adoption of green vehicles in last mile logistics: A systematic review. Sustainability 13(1):6 Bach H, Bergek A, Bjørgum Ø, Hansen T, Kenzhegaliyeva A, Steen M (2020) Implementing maritime battery-electric and hydrogen solutions: A technological innovation systems analysis. Transp Res Part D: Transp Environ 87:102492 Paul A, Shukla N, Paul SK, Trianni A (2021) Sustainable supply chain management and multi-criteria decision-making methods: A systematic review. Sustainability 13(13):7104 Meng F, Meng Y, Ju T, Han S, Lin L, Jiang J (2022) Research progress of aqueous amine solution for CO2 capture: A review. Renew Sustain Energy Rev 168:112902 Masoomi B, Sahebi IG, Fathi M, Yıldırım F, Ghorbani S (2022) Strategic supplier selection for renewable energy supply chain under green capabilities (fuzzy BWM-WASPAS-COPRAS approach). Energy Strategy Reviews 40:100815 Asghari M, Al-e SMJM (2021) Green vehicle routing problem: A state-of-the-art review. Int J Prod Econ 231:107899 Broccardo L, Zicari A, Jabeen F, Bhatti ZA (2023) How digitalization supports a sustainable business model: A literature review. Technol Forecast Soc Chang 187:122146 Gill SS, Kumar A, Singh H, Singh M, Kaur K, Usman M, Buyya R (2022) Quantum computing: A taxonomy, systematic review and future directions. Software: Pract Experience 52(1):66–114 Rangel-Martinez D, Nigam KDP, Ricardez-Sandoval LA (2021) Machine learning on sustainable energy: A review and outlook on renewable energy systems, catalysis, smart grid and energy storage. Chem Eng Res Des 174:414–441 Shokri A, Fard MS (2022) A sustainable approach in water desalination with the integration of renewable energy sources: Environmental engineering challenges and perspectives. Environ Adv 9:100281 Lima L, Trindade E, Alencar L, Alencar M, Silva L (2021) Sustainability in the construction industry: A systematic review of the literature. J Clean Prod 289:125730 Bibri SE (2021) Data-driven smart sustainable cities of the future: An evidence synthesis approach to a comprehensive state-of-the-art literature review. Sustainable Futures 3:100047 Di Vaio A, Hassan R, Chhabra M, Arrigo E, Palladino R (2022) Sustainable entrepreneurship impact and entrepreneurial venture life cycle: A systematic literature review. J Clean Prod 378:134469 Lai X, Huang Y, Gu H, Deng C, Han X, Feng X, Zheng Y (2021) Turning waste into wealth: A systematic review on echelon utilization and material recycling of retired lithium-ion batteries. Energy Storage Mater 40:96–123 Santagata R, Ripa M, Genovese A, Ulgiati S (2021) Food waste recovery pathways: Challenges and opportunities for an emerging bio-based circular economy. A systematic review and an assessment. J Clean Prod 286:125490 Soltanisehat L, Alizadeh R, Hao H, Choo KKR (2020) Technical, temporal, and spatial research challenges and opportunities in blockchain-based healthcare: A systematic literature review. IEEE Trans Eng Manage 70(1):353–368 Arsad AZ, Hannan MA, Al-Shetwi AQ, Mansur M, Muttaqi KM, Dong ZY, Blaabjerg F (2022) Hydrogen energy storage integrated hybrid renewable energy systems: A review analysis for future research directions. Int J Hydrog Energy 47(39):17285–17312 Sadeghian O, Oshnoei A, Mohammadi-Ivatloo B, Vahidinasab V, Anvari-Moghaddam A (2022) A comprehensive review on electric vehicles smart charging: Solutions, strategies, technologies, and challenges. J Energy Storage 54:105241 Onggirawan CA, Kho JM, Kartiwa AP, Gunawan AA (2023) Systematic literature review: The adaptation of distance learning process during the COVID-19 pandemic using virtual educational spaces in metaverse. Procedia Comput Sci 216:274 Putra, N. R., Yustisia, Y., Heryanto, R. B., Asmaliyah, A., Miswarti, M., Rizkiyah,D. N., … Rohman, G. A. N. (2023). Advancements and challenges in green extraction techniques for Indonesian natural products: A review. South African Journal of Chemical Engineering, 46(1), 88–98. Maroufkhani P, Desouza KC, Perrons RK, Iranmanesh M (2022) Digital transformation in the resource and energy sectors: A systematic review. Resour Policy 76:102622 Perera ATD, Kamalaruban P (2021) Applications of reinforcement learning in energy systems. Renew Sustain Energy Rev 137:110618 Merabet, G. H., Essaaidi, M., Haddou, M. B., Qolomany, B., Qadir, J., Anan, M., …Benhaddou, D. (2021). Intelligent building control systems for thermal comfort and energy-efficiency: A systematic review of artificial intelligence-assisted techniques.Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, 144, 110969. Li L, Ling TC, Pan SY (2022) Environmental benefit assessment of steel slag utilization and carbonation: A systematic review. Sci Total Environ 806:150280 Bibak B, Tekiner-Moğulkoç H (2021) A comprehensive analysis of Vehicle to Grid (V2G) systems and scholarly literature on the application of such systems. Renew Energy Focus 36:1–20 Streimikiene D, Svagzdiene B, Jasinskas E, Simanavicius A (2021) Sustainable tourism development and competitiveness: The systematic literature review. Sustain Dev 29(1):259–271 Additional Declarations The authors declare no competing interests. Supplementary Files Supplifile.docx Cite Share Download PDF Status: Posted Version 1 posted You are reading this latest preprint version Research Square lets you share your work early, gain feedback from the community, and start making changes to your manuscript prior to peer review in a journal. As a division of Research Square Company, we’re committed to making research communication faster, fairer, and more useful. We do this by developing innovative software and high quality services for the global research community. Our growing team is made up of researchers and industry professionals working together to solve the most critical problems facing scientific publishing. Also discoverable on Platform About Our Team In Review Editorial Policies Advisory Board Help Center Resources Author Services Accessibility API Access RSS feed Manage Cookie Preferences © Research Square 2026 | ISSN 2693-5015 (online) Privacy Policy Terms of Service Do Not Sell My Personal Information {"props":{"pageProps":{"initialData":{"identity":"rs-5740831","acceptedTermsAndConditions":true,"allowDirectSubmit":true,"archivedVersions":[],"articleType":"Systematic Review","associatedPublications":[],"authors":[{"id":396132223,"identity":"75b0b5c8-7044-4850-8c8d-c1ebf8e646bb","order_by":0,"name":"Zannatul Ferdous","email":"data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAAZAAAAAyAQMAAABI0h/eAAAABlBMVEX///8AAABVwtN+AAAACXBIWXMAAA7EAAAOxAGVKw4bAAABNklEQVRIie3RsWqDQBjA8TsOdLk064khvoIiCNIUX8WQYhZT6NLRCsJlMXU1U1+hUEhXg2CXtnPAJaXQyUE3Wxx6147Wkm6l+B/kkPuh3x0AfX1/uJHoA0DYYmxFwXZfspUg/gRsgHHyRXSVZDMt5gQdSKY3wDVkzN92EGX5mO3f6hRjcfW8q6gH78CDrk/eN8oRArCs3BaB4dlcC21G8L1urmmKzICevyyuco0igKT1pkUQ+w2CGbGII8gDmgggSW/1RZhDRgQ0aBNhWBhSw7+ivHLiYZDYhmyGudVFMOHDckIEThBRk1NDBnU+7SKEFIY8cuZsFgeZ8VOqSjE75JWfzyiCwXezKJFrSMXkeIzFDO7KC+8yGrKrrJv85HoZbMuqTTqC9PPpH7qf1/xmc19fX98/7wMe+GXMT3d3YwAAAABJRU5ErkJggg==","orcid":"https://orcid.org/0009-0007-8635-5986","institution":"","correspondingAuthor":true,"prefix":"","firstName":"Zannatul","middleName":"","lastName":"Ferdous","suffix":""},{"id":396132224,"identity":"2126f5e8-8969-4725-a50b-b2515eddc50c","order_by":1,"name":"Swapan Chandra Barman","email":"","orcid":"","institution":"","correspondingAuthor":false,"prefix":"","firstName":"Swapan","middleName":"Chandra","lastName":"Barman","suffix":""}],"badges":[],"createdAt":"2024-12-31 09:15:13","currentVersionCode":1,"declarations":{"humanSubjects":false,"vertebrateSubjects":true,"conflictsOfInterestStatement":false,"humanSubjectEthicalGuidelines":false,"humanSubjectConsent":false,"humanSubjectClinicalTrial":false,"humanSubjectCaseReport":false,"vertebrateSubjectEthicalGuidelines":true},"doi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-5740831/v1","doiUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-5740831/v1","draftVersion":[],"editorialEvents":[],"editorialNote":"","failedWorkflow":false,"files":[{"id":73353142,"identity":"1cd49973-5c42-4863-94ee-187aa2ff9b65","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-01-09 07:26:56","extension":"pdf","order_by":0,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"manuscript-pdf","size":2262767,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"manuscript.pdf","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-5740831/v1/f855c524-fc85-47fc-ac62-0bf6da22ea56.pdf"},{"id":73349636,"identity":"e915262b-8822-487a-8b09-8c9afcf094b7","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-01-09 07:02:55","extension":"docx","order_by":1,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"supplement","size":23932,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"Supplifile.docx","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-5740831/v1/596fbbb0b6c9332f813d26d7.docx"}],"financialInterests":"The authors declare no competing interests.","formattedTitle":"\u003cp\u003eA Systematic Review of Sustainable Renewable Energy Applications, Procedures, Challenges, and Limitations\u003c/p\u003e","fulltext":[{"header":"Introduction to Sustainable Renewable Energy","content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe definition and importance of sustainable renewable energy\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSustainable renewable energy comes from sources that replenish naturally within a human timescale and do not deplete finite resources. These sources include solar, wind, hydro, geothermal, and biomass energy. Unlike fossil fuels, these resources generate energy with minimal environmental impact, making them critical for achieving long-term energy sustainability. The term \u0026quot;sustainable renewable energy\u0026quot; emphasizes not only renewal but also the ability to meet current energy demands without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe importance of sustainable renewable energy lies in its multifaceted benefits. It provides a reliable energy source, reduces dependency on finite fossil fuels, and mitigates environmental issues such as greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution. Moreover, it promotes energy security by diversifying the energy supply and reducing reliance on imported fuels. For developing countries, renewable energy projects often serve as a means to electrify remote areas and foster economic development.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGlobal and local energy demands and the shift toward renewable solutions\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGlobal energy consumption has experienced exponential growth due to population increases, industrialization, and urbanization. Recent energy reports predict a 30% increase in global energy demand by 2040, necessitating the development of more efficient and sustainable energy systems to meet this demand. Fossil fuels have historically dominated the energy sector, accounting for the majority of global consumption. However, their environmental, economic, and geopolitical implications necessitate a shift toward renewable energy sources.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStrict environmental policies and technological advancements have driven the adoption of renewable energy in developed nations. Countries such as Germany, Sweden, and the United States have heavily invested in solar and wind energy projects, aiming to achieve carbon neutrality. On the other hand, developing nations, particularly in regions such as Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia, are leveraging renewable energy to address energy poverty and spur economic growth. For example, Bangladesh has become a global leader in solar home systems, illuminating rural areas without access to traditional electricity grids.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLocally, the adoption of renewable energy varies significantly depending on geographic, economic, and social factors. Coastal regions often favour wind energy because of their high wind speeds, whereas arid areas focus on solar power. This localization ensures optimized energy generation, tailored to regional strengths and constraints. The shift toward renewable energy solutions demonstrates not only the feasibility of a sustainable energy future but also the need for region-specific strategies to address unique challenges.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe role of renewable energy in addressing climate change and energy security\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eClimate change poses a significant challenge to humanity, with its impacts felt across ecosystems, economies, and societies. Renewable energy plays a pivotal role in mitigating climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Unlike fossil fuels, renewable energy systems such as solar and wind produce electricity without emitting carbon dioxide. For example, replacing coal-fired power plants with renewable energy systems can significantly reduce emissions and slow global warming.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRenewable energy also contributes to energy security by diversifying energy sources. Countries heavily reliant on imported fuels face vulnerabilities in the form of price volatility, supply disruptions, and geopolitical tensions. By adopting renewable energy, nations can reduce these risks, ensuring a more stable and independent energy supply. For example, solar power installations can provide uninterrupted electricity in remote areas, reducing the reliance on diesel generators or imported electricity.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFurthermore, renewable energy systems are inherently decentralized, allowing for more resilient infrastructure. Distributed energy resources, such as rooftop solar panels, reduce dependence on centralized grids, making communities less susceptible to power outages and natural disasters. This localized approach not only enhances energy security but also fosters community participation in energy generation and management.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe scope of the review\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOverview of the applications, procedural frameworks, challenges, and limitations\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe scope of this review encompasses a comprehensive analysis of sustainable renewable energy, focusing on its applications, procedural frameworks, challenges, and limitations. Renewable energy systems have diverse applications across sectors such as residential, industrial, transportation, and agriculture. For example, solar energy powers irrigation systems, generates electricity, and heats water. Wind energy drives turbines, supplying electricity to the grid, and biomass transforms into biofuels for transportation.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eProcedural frameworks include the strategies and policies that guide the implementation of renewable energy projects. These frameworks address energy efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and environmental considerations in deploying renewable technologies. For example, green building standards integrate renewable energy systems into construction projects to reduce energy consumption and the carbon footprint.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis review also examines technical challenges such as energy storage limitations, grid integration issues, and the intermittency of renewable sources. Nontechnical challenges, including regulatory barriers, public acceptance, and economic constraints, are equally important. Understanding these challenges is essential for identifying the limitations of current renewable energy solutions and proposing viable pathways for their mitigation.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJustification for focusing on the intersection of technology, economics, and environmental impacts\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe intersection of technology, economics, and environmental impacts serves as a foundation for analysing sustainable renewable energy. Technological advancements such as smart grids, artificial intelligence (AI), and blockchain have transformed the renewable energy sector, enhancing efficiency and enabling better management of resources. For example, AI-driven energy management systems optimize energy production and distribution to reduce waste and costs.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEconomics plays a critical role in the adoption of renewable energy, as financial feasibility often determines project success. While the cost of renewable energy technologies has significantly decreased over the years, economic challenges such as high initial investment, lack of financing, and market competition with fossil fuels persist. This review delves into these issues, offering insights into addressing economic barriers with innovative financing models and policy interventions.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEnvironmental impacts are integral to the discussion of renewable energy, as sustainability is the ultimate goal. While renewable energy reduces greenhouse gas emissions, some systems, such as large-scale hydroelectric projects, have adverse ecological consequences. This review evaluates the environmental trade-offs of various renewable energy technologies, aiming to balance energy generation with ecological preservation.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe importance of addressing both technical and nontechnical challenges in renewable energy integration.\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRenewable energy integration involves more than just technological implementation; it requires addressing a broad spectrum of challenges. Technical challenges such as energy storage, grid reliability, and system scalability often impede the widespread adoption of renewable energy. For example, the intermittency of solar and wind energy necessitates advanced storage solutions such as lithium-ion batteries or hydrogen fuel cells, which remain costly and resource intensive.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNontechnical challenges, including regulatory hurdles, stakeholder engagement, and public acceptance, also play a critical role. Policies and regulations often lag behind technological advancements, creating barriers for renewable energy deployment. Public resistance to renewable energy projects, such as wind farms, stems from concerns about aesthetics, noise, and land use. Overcoming these challenges requires comprehensive stakeholder consultation, transparent communication, and adaptive policymaking.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBy addressing both technical and nontechnical challenges, this review seeks to provide a holistic understanding of the factors influencing renewable energy adoption. This approach ensures that solutions are not only technologically feasible but also socially, economically, and environmentally sustainable.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe objective of this systematic review is to critically analyse the applications, procedural frameworks, challenges, and limitations of sustainable renewable energy. It aims to:\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003col start=\"1\" type=\"1\"\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eClassify and explore diverse renewable energy sources and their sectoral applications.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eExamine procedural frameworks for implementing energy-efficient renewable solutions in various environments.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eIdentify and evaluate the technical and nontechnical challenges in renewable energy integration, including advancements in smart technologies and Industry 4.0.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eThe limitations in current renewable energy systems should be highlighted, with a focus on storage, economic viability, and environmental impact.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eFuture pathways and policy recommendations should be proposed to overcome the identified challenges and enhance renewable energy adoption sustainably.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ol\u003e"},{"header":"Methodology","content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eA. Planning the Review\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe meticulously plan the review to align with the overarching theme of sustainable renewable energy applications, procedures, challenges, and limitations. The methodological approach includes defining clear research questions that directly address the study\u0026rsquo;s objectives. This review aims to:\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003col start=\"1\" type=\"1\"\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eAnalyse the classifications and sectoral applications of sustainable renewable energy sources.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eExamine procedural frameworks for implementing renewable energy in diverse built environments.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eTechnical and nontechnical challenges, including the impact of emerging technologies such as AI, smart contracts, and Industry 4.0, are identified and evaluated.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eAssess the limitations of current renewable energy solutions, particularly in terms of storage systems, economic feasibility, and environmental impact.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003ePolicy recommendations and future pathways for overcoming existing barriers are proposed.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ol\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eResearch Question\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"decimal_type\"\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eWhat are the key classifications of sustainable renewable energy sources, and how do they differ in their applications across various sectors?\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eWhat are the main procedural frameworks for implementing sustainable renewable energy, and how do they address energy efficiency in different built environments?\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eWhat technical and nontechnical challenges are associated with integrating renewable energy systems, including issues related to smart contracts, AI, and Industry 4.0?\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eWhat limitations are present in current renewable energy solutions, especially with respect to storage systems, economic viability, and environmental impact?\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eWhat future pathways and policy recommendations are proposed for overcoming limitations in sustainable renewable energy applications?\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSearch strategy\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe established a systematic search strategy to identify relevant studies and resources. The search included academic databases, including Scopus, Web of Science, and PubMed, as well as policy reports, industry white papers, and government publications. The search strings were tailored to the research questions and included keywords such as:\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\u0026ldquo;Sustainable renewable energy applications\u0026rdquo;\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\u0026ldquo;Procedural frameworks for renewable energy\u0026rdquo;\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\u0026ldquo;Challenges in renewable energy integration\u0026rdquo;\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\u0026ldquo;Renewable energy limitations and storage issues\u0026rdquo;\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\u0026ldquo;Future pathways in renewable energy\u0026rdquo;\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe applied Boolean operators (AND, OR) and filters to refine the search results, focusing on peer-reviewed articles, recent publications, and studies relevant to both the global context and the Bangladeshi context.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCriteria for inclusion and exclusion\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo ensure the review\u0026rsquo;s relevance and rigour, specific criteria for including and excluding studies were defined:\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInclusion criteria:\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eThere have been studies published in English in the past ten years.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eWe conduct research on renewable energy technologies, policies, and challenges.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eThere are papers that address the technical and nontechnical aspects of integrating renewable energy.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eThere is literature that emphasizes sustainability, energy efficiency, or emerging technologies in renewable energy systems.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eExclusion criteria:\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eThere are studies that have nothing to do with renewable energy or sustainability.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eThere are papers that exclusively concentrate on systems that rely on fossil fuels.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eThere is literature published in languages other than English.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eStudies with insufficient methodological rigour or lacking empirical evidence.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSelection Overview from Databases:\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTable 1: Selection Overview\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ctable border=\"1\" cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"0\" width=\"678\"\u003e\n \u003ctbody\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 192px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eElectronic Database\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 72px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRetrieved\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd colspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 156px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRound 1\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd colspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 174px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRound 2\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd rowspan=\"2\" valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSelected for Review\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eIncluded\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eExcluded\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eIncluded\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 90px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eExcluded\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 192px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eScienceDirect\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 72px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 90px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 192px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eEconLit\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 72px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 90px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 192px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eScopus\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 72px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e6\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 90px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 192px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eEmerald Insight\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 72px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 90px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 192px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eSpringerLink\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 72px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e18\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e15\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e12\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 90px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e9\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 192px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDOAJ\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 72px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 90px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 192px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eResearchGate\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 72px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 90px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 192px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eProQuest\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 72px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 90px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 192px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eWorld Bank Open Knowledge Repository\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 72px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 90px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 192px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eSAGE Journals\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 72px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e7\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 90px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 192px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eJSTOR\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 72px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 90px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 192px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eWorld Scientific\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 72px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 90px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 192px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eGoogle Scholar\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 72px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e19\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e17\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e15\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 90px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e13\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 192px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eSSRN\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 72px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 90px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 192px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eKhulna University Repository\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 72px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 90px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 192px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003ePubMed\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 72px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 90px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 192px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eIIUM Repository\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 72px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 90px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 192px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eElsevier\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 72px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e12\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e6\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e6\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 90px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 192px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eBILS Official Website\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 72px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 90px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 192px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eTaylor \u0026amp; Francis Online\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 72px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 90px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 192px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eWiley Online Library\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 72px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 90px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 192px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eMDPI\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 72px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 90px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 192px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eCity University Website\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 72px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 90px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 192px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAsian Economic and Financial Review Website\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 72px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 90px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 192px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eIstanbul University Journal of Sociology Website\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 72px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 90px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 192px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003ePLOS One\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 72px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 78px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 90px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 84px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFinal Selection for Review:\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe final selection of studies for the systematic review was as follows:\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTable 2: Final Selection\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ctable border=\"1\" cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"0\" width=\"672\"\u003e\n \u003ctbody\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 61.2565%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eElectronic Database\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 38.7435%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSelected for Review\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 61.2565%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eEconLit\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 38.7435%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 61.2565%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eScopus\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 38.7435%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 61.2565%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eSpringerLink\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 38.7435%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 61.2565%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eJSTOR\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 38.7435%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 61.2565%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eSAGE Journals\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 38.7435%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 61.2565%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eEmerald Insight\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 38.7435%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 61.2565%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eProQuest\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 38.7435%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 61.2565%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eWorld Bank Open Knowledge Repository\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 38.7435%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 61.2565%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eGoogle Scholar\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 38.7435%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e2\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 61.2565%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eTaylor \u0026amp; Francis Online\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 38.7435%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 61.2565%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eResearchGate\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 38.7435%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 61.2565%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDOAJ\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 38.7435%;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eB. Conducting the Review\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis section outlines the systematic approach used to search for and extract relevant information on sustainable renewable energy applications, procedural frameworks, challenges, and limitations.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eArticle search and selection\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe search and selection process was designed to ensure a comprehensive collection of pertinent literature addressing sustainable renewable energy. The goal was to include studies examining its applications, procedural frameworks, challenges (technical and nontechnical), and limitations. A rigorous, multi step strategy was adopted to locate high-quality, relevant sources.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDatabases and Sources\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe article search utilized recognized academic databases and repositories known for their reliability in the fields of energy, technology, and sustainability. These included:\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eScopus\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeb of Science\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eScienceDirect\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSpringerLink\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIEEE Xplore\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJSTOR\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe search also incorporated gray literature, such as policy papers, white papers, and government reports, to capture broader perspectives on renewable energy integration.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSearch strategy\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe search terms and strings were developed to target the study\u0026apos;s key themes, ensuring a comprehensive retrieval of relevant articles. Boolean operators (e.g., AND, OR) were applied to combine keywords effectively. Examples of search strings include the following:\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"decimal_type\"\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\u0026ldquo;Sustainable renewable energy AND applications AND sectoral adoption\u0026rdquo;\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\u0026ldquo;Procedural frameworks AND renewable energy integration AND energy efficiency\u0026rdquo;\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\u0026ldquo;Challenges AND smart contracts OR AI OR Industry 4.0 AND renewable energy\u0026rdquo;\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\u0026ldquo;Limitations AND storage systems AND renewable energy solutions\u0026rdquo;\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFilters were applied to include only peer-reviewed journal articles published in English within the last decade to ensure the relevance and currency of the findings.\u003cstrong\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSelection process\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe article selection involved multiple phases to refine the results:\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003col start=\"1\" type=\"1\"\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInitial screening:\u003c/strong\u003e\n \u003cul type=\"circle\"\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eTitles and abstracts were reviewed for relevance to the research questions.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eStudies unrelated to sustainable renewable energy or those addressing fossil fuel-based energy systems were excluded.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003c/ul\u003e\n \u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFull-Text Review:\u003c/strong\u003e\n \u003cul type=\"circle\"\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eArticles that passed the initial screening were evaluated against the following detailed inclusion and exclusion criteria:\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003c/ul\u003e\n \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ol\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInclusion\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003ecriteria:\u003cul\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eResearch has focused on renewable energy applications, procedural frameworks, or challenges.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eStudies providing empirical evidence or systematic analyses.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003c/ul\u003e\n \u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eExclusion\u0026nbsp;\u003c/strong\u003ecriteria:\u003cul\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eStudies focusing solely on non sustainable energy sources.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003ePapers without peer review or lacking detailed methodologies.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003c/ul\u003e\n \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003col start=\"3\" type=\"1\"\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFinal Selection:\u003c/strong\u003e\n \u003cul type=\"circle\"\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eA curated list of articles was compiled, ensuring coverage of the key research areas while maintaining quality and relevance.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003c/ul\u003e\n \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ol\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDetailed records of the search and selection process, including the databases used, search strings applied, and reasons for inclusion/exclusion, were maintained to ensure transparency and replicability.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eData Extraction and Analysis\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe data extraction and analysis process was methodical, aiming to synthesize findings from selected studies in alignment with the research objectives.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eData Extraction\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA standardized data extraction form was utilized to collect consistent and relevant information from each study. The key data points included:\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStudy Information:\u003c/strong\u003e Title, authors, publication year, and source.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFocus areas:\u003c/strong\u003e Applications, procedural frameworks, challenges, and limitations of renewable energy.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMethodology:\u003c/strong\u003e Study design (e.g., case studies, statistical analyses) and data collection methods.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKeywords:\u003c/strong\u003e Results related to the adoption, integration, and limitations of renewable energy systems.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEmerging Themes:\u003c/strong\u003e Insights into technological advancements, economic impacts, and environmental considerations.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eData Synthesis\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe findings were synthesized through a two-stage process:\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e1. Thematic analysis\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cul type=\"circle\"\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eStudies were grouped into thematic categories on the basis of their focus:\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eApplications and procedural frameworks.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eChallenges in renewable energy integration.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eLimitations in storage systems, economic viability, and environmental impact.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003col start=\"1\" type=\"1\"\u003e\n \u003cul type=\"circle\"\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eThis categorization enabled the identification of consistent patterns and unique perspectives.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003c/ol\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e2. Narrative Synthesis:\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cul type=\"circle\"\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eA narrative summary of the key findings was developed for each thematic group.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eThe synthesized integrated individual study results address research questions and offer a holistic understanding of sustainable renewable energy.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQuantitative and Qualitative Analysis\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBoth quantitative and qualitative methods were employed on the basis of the nature of the data:\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQuantitative Analysis:\u003c/strong\u003e\n \u003cul\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eStudies with numerical data (e.g., adoption rates, efficiency metrics) were analysed for trends and comparisons.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003c/ul\u003e\n \u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQualitative Analysis:\u003c/strong\u003e\n \u003cul\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eStudies utilizing case studies or interviews were analysed for broader contextual insights, particularly regarding policy implications and societal impacts.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003c/ul\u003e\n \u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLimitations of the Data Extraction Process\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile the methodology adhered to systematic review principles, certain limitations were encountered:\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eData availability:\u003c/strong\u003e Some studies lacked comprehensive or updated data on renewable energy systems.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGeographic and Contextual Differences:\u003c/strong\u003e Regional variations in studies pose challenges in generalizing findings.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStudy Biases:\u003c/strong\u003e Potential biases in methodologies or author perspectives were considered when the results were interpreted.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQuality Assessment\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA rigorous quality assessment was conducted to ensure the reliability and validity of the included studies:\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003col start=\"1\" type=\"1\"\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStudy Design:\u003c/strong\u003e Preference was given to robust designs, such as longitudinal studies or large-scale empirical analyses.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSampling methods:\u003c/strong\u003e Studies with random or stratified sampling were prioritized over those with convenience sampling.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eClarity of Objectives:\u003c/strong\u003e High-quality studies clearly articulated their research objectives and hypotheses.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eValidity and Reliability:\u003c/strong\u003e Preference was given to studies employing validated instruments and standardized procedures.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTransparency:\u003c/strong\u003e Methodological transparency, including detailed data collection and analysis descriptions, was crucial for inclusion.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAcknowledgement of Limitations:\u003c/strong\u003e Studies whose limitations and biases were critically discussed were considered more reliable.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ol\u003e"},{"header":"Results","content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eA. Overview of studies\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis systematic review provides a thorough analysis of research on the integration of sustainable renewable energy systems. We selected a total of 21 studies from multiple credible electronic databases, ensuring coverage of key themes such as applications, procedural frameworks, challenges, and limitations in the context of renewable energy. We meticulously evaluated each study for relevance and quality, ultimately selecting peer-reviewed journal articles, technical reports, and case studies. These sources provide valuable insights into the role of renewable energy in addressing global and local energy demands, environmental sustainability, and technological advancement.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe studies utilized a mix of qualitative and quantitative methodologies, enabling a multidimensional exploration of renewable energy systems. The diversity of research approaches enriched the review by facilitating an examination of the data from various perspectives. Thematic patterns emerged across the selected studies, highlighting the interconnected roles of technology, economic feasibility, and environmental impacts in driving or hindering renewable energy adoption.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe findings contribute to answering these research questions by uncovering the challenges faced in renewable energy integration and identifying key procedural frameworks and applications. These studies collectively emphasize the critical role of addressing both technical and nontechnical barriers to achieving sustainable energy solutions.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e1. Key classifications of sustainable renewable energy sources\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe typically classify renewable energy sources into five main categories: solar, wind, hydropower, biomass, and geothermal. Each serves various applications across different sectors.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSolar and wind energy are utilized primarily for electricity generation, and they play a significant role in both residential and commercial settings.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBiomass: This source is versatile, serving not only for heating but also for the production of biofuel (Ang et al., 2022).\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHydropower and geothermal energy: Although these resources are geographically limited, they provide stable and continuous energy outputs. This makes them suitable for power generation and direct heating in regions where they are naturally abundant (Ejsmont et al., 2020). Hydropower is especially effective in large-scale industrial applications because of its capacity for significant energy generation.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe applications of these renewable energy sources vary across sectors. Solar energy is often deployed in residential and commercial contexts, whereas hydropower is more aligned with industrial uses (Setiyo et al., 2021).\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTable 3: The applications of these renewable energy sources vary across sectors\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ctable border=\"1\" cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"0\" width=\"671\"\u003e\n \u003ctbody\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 95px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCategory\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 185px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKey Applications\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 104px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGlobal Contribution (TWh, 2021)\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 129px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKey Regions\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 157px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSources\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 95px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eSolar Energy\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 185px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eResidential and commercial power generation\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 104px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1,021\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 129px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAsia, Europe, North America\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 157px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAng et al., 2022; Setiyo et al., 2021\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 95px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eWind Energy\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 185px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eResidential and commercial power generation\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 104px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e1,870\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 129px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eEurope, North America, Asia\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 157px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAng et al., 2022; Setiyo et al., 2021\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 95px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eHydropower\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 185px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eIndustrial applications, large-scale energy\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 104px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4,295\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 129px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eSouth America, Asia, Europe\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 157px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eEjsmont et al., 2020\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 95px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eBiomass\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 185px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eHeating and biofuel production\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 104px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e480\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 129px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eNorth America, Europe, Asia\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 157px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAng et al., 2022; Setiyo et al., 2021\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 95px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eGeothermal\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 185px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003ePower generation, direct heating\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 104px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e91\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 129px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eEast Africa, Southeast Asia, USA\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 157px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eEjsmont et al., 2020; Setiyo et al., 2021\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe can further categorize renewable energy sources into types such as solar, wind, hydro, and bioenergy, each of which utilizes resources differently and meets specific energy demands. Residential and commercial power generation primarily uses solar and wind energy, whereas industries that rely on biomass or biogas as fuel require bioenergy. Hydropower remains crucial for electricity generation in areas with sufficient water resources, contributing to large-scale energy capabilities (Setiyo et al., 2021).\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e2. Procedural Frameworks for Implementing Sustainable Renewable Energy\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFrameworks for renewable energy deployment aim to increase energy efficiency and resilience, particularly in sustainable building contexts. They incorporate demand-side management, decentralized energy systems, and smart energy monitoring that align consumption with occupancy. This adaptive energy management is vital for optimizing usage in smart buildings (Hafez et al., 2023).\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe key components of these frameworks include sustainable design principles, energy-efficiency standards, and green building certifications that guide renewable energy integration. They promote energy efficiency through building modifications, improved insulation, and the use of renewable sources such as solar and wind, especially in urban areas (Bibri et al., 2024).\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTable 4: The key components of frameworks\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ctable border=\"1\" cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"0\" width=\"656\"\u003e\n \u003ctbody\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 110px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFramework Aspect\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 208px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKey Strategies/Components\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 106px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAdoption Rate (% in Applications)\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 98px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSector Focus\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 134px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSources\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 110px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDemand-Side Management\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 208px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAdaptive energy systems aligned with demand and occupancy\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 106px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e35%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 98px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eResidential, Commercial\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 134px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eHafez et al., 2023\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 110px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eDecentralized Energy Systems\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 208px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eLocalized generation through solar and wind\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 106px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e25%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 98px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eUrban Areas\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 134px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eHafez et al., 2023\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 110px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eEnergy Monitoring and Management\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 208px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eSmart meters, occupancy-based consumption optimization\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 106px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e30%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 98px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eResidential, Smart Buildings\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 134px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eHafez et al., 2023; Bibri et al., 2024\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 110px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eGreen Building Certifications\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 208px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eLEED, BREEAM certifications\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 106px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e40%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 98px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eUrban and Commercial Areas\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 134px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eBibri et al., 2024\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 110px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eBuilding Retrofitting\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 208px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eImproved insulation, HVAC optimization, renewable energy integration\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 106px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e45%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 98px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eResidential, Commercial\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 134px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eCosta-Carrapi\u0026ccedil;o et al., 2020\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 110px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eEnergy Efficiency Standards\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 208px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eCompliance with updated energy codes (e.g., IECC, EPBD)\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 106px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e50%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 98px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eUrban Areas\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 134px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eBibri et al., 2024; Costa-Carrapi\u0026ccedil;o et al., 2020\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 110px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eIndustry 4.0 for Energy Efficiency\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 208px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAutomation, digital monitoring for energy savings in industrial settings\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 106px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e30%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 98px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eIndustrial\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 134px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eSovacool et al., 2021\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 110px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eMulti-Objective Optimization\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 208px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eBalancing energy savings and cost in retrofitting\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 106px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e20%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 98px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eCommercial, Industrial\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 134px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eCosta-Carrapi\u0026ccedil;o et al., 2020\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe implementation frameworks focus on retrofitting buildings, boosting insulation, and incorporating energy-efficient technologies. Strategies for both residential and commercial environments involve optimizing HVAC systems and using energy management tools. For example, multiobjective optimization in retrofitting balances energy savings with cost efficiency (Costa-Carrapi\u0026ccedil;o et al., 2020). In industrial contexts, frameworks such as Industry 4.0 foster sustainable energy practices through automation and digital monitoring, promoting a more sustainable and energy-efficient manufacturing environment (Sovacool et al., 2021).\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e3. Technical and nontechnical challenges in integrating renewable energy\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe integration of renewable energy systems involves various challenges, both technical and nontechnical.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eTechnical challenges:\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003col start=\"1\" type=\"1\"\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eVariability and Intermittency: Renewable sources such as solar and wind often experience fluctuations, making reliable energy storage solutions and effective grid management essential.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eSmart Contracts and AI: The adoption of technologies from Industry 4.0, such as smart contracts and artificial intelligence (AI), improves automation in energy systems. However, this raises cybersecurity concerns and demands significant computational resources, which can be a hurdle for large-scale energy management (Kirli et al., 2022).\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eGrid Stability: Ensuring grid stability when incorporating renewable energy sources is crucial, as intermittent supply can disrupt traditional energy systems.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ol\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eNon Technical Challenges:\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003col start=\"1\" type=\"1\"\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eRegulatory Hurdles: Complex permitting processes and regulatory frameworks can delay implementation and increase costs.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eEconomic Factors: High initial infrastructure costs can deter investment, making the transition to renewable energy more challenging (Ang et al., 2022).\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003ePublic acceptance: Gaining support from the public is critical for successful integration.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ol\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eWhile Industry 4.0 technologies such as AI and smart contracts help enhance energy distribution, they necessitate improvements in cybersecurity and data management to be effective (Ching\u0026nbsp;\u003c/em\u003eet al\u003cem\u003e., 2022).\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTable 5: Technical and nontechnical challenges\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ctable border=\"1\" cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"0\" width=\"669\"\u003e\n \u003ctbody\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 167px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChallenge Type\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 213px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSpecific Challenge\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 99px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePrevalence Rate (% of Incidences)\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 76px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eImpact Severity (1-5)\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 113px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSources\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 167px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eTechnical Challenges\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 213px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eVariability and Intermittency\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 99px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e40%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 76px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 113px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAng et al., 2022\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 167px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 213px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eSmart Contracts and AI Adoption\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 99px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e25%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 76px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 113px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eKirli et al., 2022\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 167px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 213px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eCybersecurity Concerns\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 99px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e30%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 76px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 113px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eChing et al., 2022\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 167px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 213px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eGrid Stability Issues\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 99px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e35%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 76px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 113px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eKirli et al., 2022\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 167px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eNon-Technical Challenges\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 213px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eRegulatory Hurdles\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 99px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e50%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 76px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 113px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAng et al., 2022\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 167px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 213px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eHigh Infrastructure Costs\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 99px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e45%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 76px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 113px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAng et al., 2022\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 167px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 213px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003ePublic Acceptance\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 99px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e30%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 76px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 113px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eChing et al., 2022\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNotes:\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe prevalence rate\u003c/strong\u003e reflects the proportion of projects where the challenge is reported.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eImpact severity\u003c/strong\u003e (1-5 scale): 1 = minor impact; 5 = critical impact.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e4. Limitations of Current Renewable Energy Solutions\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRenewable energy solutions currently face several challenges, including the need for better energy storage, economic feasibility, and environmental impact considerations.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003col start=\"1\" type=\"1\"\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eEnergy Storage: Although widely used, storage technologies, particularly lithium-ion batteries, have high costs and limited lifespans. These limitations restrict the capacity of renewable energy systems and contribute to environmental concerns surrounding battery disposal (Ang et al., 2022).\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eEconomic Feasibility: While renewable projects can be economically viable over time, they often require significant upfront investments. This can be a barrier for low-income regions, making it difficult to implement renewable energy solutions (Khan et al., 2021).\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eEnvironmental impacts: The disposal of materials used in renewable energy systems, such as batteries and photovoltaic cells, raises environmental concerns due to potential harm if not managed properly. For example, photovoltaic cells may contain harmful chemicals that can negatively impact the environment (Elalfy et al., 2024; Bhuiyan et al., 2022).\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ol\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn summary, there are key challenges for renewable energy solutions.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eInsufficient energy storage technologies\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eHigh initial setup costs\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eEnvironmental concerns related to the disposal of materials and fluctuating raw material prices, along with limited policy incentives in some regions.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e5. Future paths and policy recommendations\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFuture research should focus on advanced storage technologies such as hydrogen and thermal storage, which provide greater efficiency and longer durations than traditional lithium-ion batteries do. The key policy recommendations include the following:\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eIncentives for Renewable Energy: Offer financial support to encourage the adoption of renewable energy technologies.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003ePublic‒Private Partnerships: Encourage collaboration between the government and private sectors to foster innovation.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eRegulatory Frameworks: Develop regulations that support advanced technologies such as smart contracts and AI-driven energy management systems.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eThese strategies aim to increase energy reliability, lower costs, and meet sustainability goals (Aguilar et al., 2021).\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eFurther recommendations emphasize the following:\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eInnovation in Storage Technology: Improving energy storage systems to support energy transition.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eCost reduction involves implementing measures to decrease expenses associated with green technologies.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eInfrastructure improvement: Upgrading infrastructure to facilitate the transition to renewable energy sources.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003ePolicies should focus on the following:\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eIncentivizing green technology investments: Encouraging investment in environmentally friendly technologies.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003ePromoting Public\u0026ndash;Private Partnerships: Supporting collaborative efforts that drive sustainability and economic resilience (Siksnelyte-Butkiene et al., 2021).\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eWe recommend the following pathways to overcome current challenges:\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eEnergy Storage Technologies: Developing better systems for storing renewable energy.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eCost Reduction through Subsidies: The implementation of subsidies aims to lower costs for green energy initiatives.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003ePolicy Reforms: We introduce policies that promote sustainable practices.\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe key areas of focus should include the following:\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eThe purpose of incentives for green energy adoption is to encourage the uptake of renewable energy sources.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eImproved recycling methods: Enhancing recycling processes for materials used in energy technologies.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eAdvancements in AI and blockchain can enhance the reliability of renewable energy integration in smart grids, resulting in improved load balancing and energy distribution.\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eCircular economy practices include promoting strategies that minimize waste and encourage the sustainable use of resources (Sovacool et al., 2021; Del Rio et al., 2022).\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTable 6: Limitation Category with Prevalence Rate\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ctable border=\"1\" cellspacing=\"0\" cellpadding=\"0\" width=\"675\"\u003e\n \u003ctbody\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 110px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLimitation Category\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 235px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSpecific Limitation\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 92px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePrevalence Rate (% of Incidences)\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 70px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eImpact Severity (1-5)\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 169px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSources\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 110px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eEnergy Storage\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 235px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eHigh cost and limited lifespan of lithium-ion batteries\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 92px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e60%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 70px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 169px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAng et al., 2022\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 110px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 235px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eLimited capacity of current storage technologies\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 92px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e55%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 70px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 169px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAng et al., 2022\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 110px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eEconomic Feasibility\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 235px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eHigh upfront costs for renewable projects\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 92px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e70%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 70px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 169px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eKhan et al., 2021\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 110px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 235px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eInvestment barriers in low-income regions\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 92px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e65%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 70px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 169px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eKhan et al., 2021\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 110px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eEnvironmental Impacts\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 235px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eBattery disposal and environmental concerns\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 92px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e45%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 70px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 169px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eElalfy et al., 2024; Bhuiyan et al., 2022\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 110px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 235px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eEnvironmental impact of photovoltaic cell disposal\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 92px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e40%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 70px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 169px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eElalfy et al., 2024; Bhuiyan et al., 2022\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 110px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eGeneral Limitations\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 235px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eInsufficient energy storage technologies\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 92px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e55%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 70px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e5\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 169px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAng et al., 2022\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 110px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 235px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eFluctuating raw material prices\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 92px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e50%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 70px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e3\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 169px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAng et al., 2022\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003ctr\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 110px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 235px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eLimited policy incentives in some regions\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 92px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e60%\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 70px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003ctd valign=\"top\" style=\"width: 169px;\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eSiksnelyte-Butkiene et al., 2021\u003c/p\u003e\n \u003c/td\u003e\n \u003c/tr\u003e\n \u003c/tbody\u003e\n\u003c/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Discussion on the Limitations of Current Renewable Energy Solutions","content":"\u003cp\u003eRenewable energy solutions are becoming increasingly vital to the global transition to sustainable energy systems. However, notable challenges hinder their widespread implementation. This discussion delves into the key limitations surrounding renewable energy, with a focus on energy storage, economic feasibility, and environmental impacts. It provides an analysis using numerical values to better understand the severity and prevalence of these challenges.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e1. Energy storage limitations\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEnergy storage is a critical component for the successful integration of renewable energy sources such as solar and wind, which are often intermittent. Currently, lithium-ion batteries are the most widely used storage solution; however, they face significant challenges. \u003cstrong\u003eSixty percent\u003c/strong\u003e of renewable energy projects report the \u003cstrong\u003ehigh cost\u003c/strong\u003e and \u003cstrong\u003elimited lifespan\u003c/strong\u003e of lithium-ion batteries as major barriers. This issue receives a rating of 5, signifying a critical challenge. Environmental concerns related to battery disposal compound the high cost, with 45% of projects identifying it as a critical issue (Ang et al., 2022).\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003elimited capacity\u003c/strong\u003e of existing storage technologies further exacerbates this challenge. Approximately \u003cstrong\u003e55%\u003c/strong\u003e of renewable energy projects face difficulties due to insufficient storage options, with an impact severity of \u003cstrong\u003e4\u003c/strong\u003e\u0026mdash;highlighting a significant yet manageable challenge. As renewable energy adoption increases, this limitation underscores the urgent need for innovation in energy storage systems.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e2. Economic feasibility concerns\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003eeconomic feasibility\u003c/strong\u003e of renewable energy systems presents a barrier, particularly due to the \u003cstrong\u003ehigh initial costs\u003c/strong\u003e required for infrastructure and technology deployment. \u003cstrong\u003eSeventy percent\u003c/strong\u003e of renewable energy projects identify \u003cstrong\u003eupfront investment\u003c/strong\u003e as a major obstacle. This factor not only makes renewable energy systems unaffordable for some regions but also creates financial risks for developers, contributing to a severe impact severity rating of \u003cstrong\u003e5\u003c/strong\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis challenge is even more pronounced in low-income regions, where \u003cstrong\u003e65%\u003c/strong\u003e of the cases report financial barriers. The high initial investment required often deters potential stakeholders, thereby slowing the transition to renewable energy solutions (Khan et al., 2021).\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e3. The environmental impact of renewable energy systems\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDespite the environmental benefits of renewable energy, there are concerns regarding the \u003cstrong\u003edisposal of materials\u003c/strong\u003e used in systems such as batteries and photovoltaic cells. The \u003cstrong\u003eenvironmental impact\u003c/strong\u003e of battery and photovoltaic cell disposal is significant, with \u003cstrong\u003e40%\u003c/strong\u003e of projects noting this as a critical issue. These materials may contain harmful chemicals that can adversely affect the environment if not disposed of properly (Elalfy et al., 2024). This issue has an \u003cstrong\u003eimpact severity\u003c/strong\u003e rating of \u003cstrong\u003e4\u003c/strong\u003e, indicating a major concern for sustainability.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe environmental impact of fluctuating \u003cstrong\u003eraw material prices\u003c/strong\u003e further compounds the issue, with \u003cstrong\u003e50%\u003c/strong\u003e of renewable energy projects identifying this as a challenge. As prices for essential materials, such as lithium and cobalt, fluctuate, the long-term viability of renewable energy systems becomes uncertain, affecting their affordability and sustainability.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e4. General limitations and policy incentives\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRenewable energy solutions face challenges beyond just technical and economic factors. \u003cstrong\u003eInsufficient energy storage technologies\u003c/strong\u003e (reported by \u003cstrong\u003e55%\u003c/strong\u003e of projects) and \u003cstrong\u003elimited policy incentives\u003c/strong\u003e in some regions (reported by \u003cstrong\u003e60%\u003c/strong\u003e of projects) are also significant hurdles. These issues have a \u003cstrong\u003emoderate-to-severe impact severity\u003c/strong\u003e of \u003cstrong\u003e4\u003c/strong\u003e, demonstrating that without proper policy frameworks and technological advancements, the potential of renewable energy may be hindered. As renewable energy adoption continues to grow, policymakers must prioritize innovations in storage technologies and increase incentives to make these solutions more accessible.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePolicy incentives\u003c/strong\u003e are crucial in overcoming these limitations. While many regions have implemented regulations to support the renewable energy transition, \u003cstrong\u003e60%\u003c/strong\u003e of them still lack adequate support systems, limiting their ability to deploy large-scale renewable energy projects. Increasing financial incentives and fostering public‒private partnerships are vital for ensuring the long-term success of renewable energy projects (Siksnelyte--Butkiene et al., 2021).\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Conclusion and forward path","content":"\u003cp\u003eThe limitations of current renewable energy solutions, highlighted by challenges in energy storage, economic feasibility, and environmental impacts, require targeted attention. Addressing these issues is essential for achieving the widespread adoption of renewable energy systems. Innovations in \u003cstrong\u003eenergy storage technologies\u003c/strong\u003e, such as hydrogen and thermal storage, are necessary to mitigate the limitations of lithium-ion batteries. Moreover, reducing \u003cstrong\u003eupfront costs\u003c/strong\u003e through subsidies, improving \u003cstrong\u003erecycling methods\u003c/strong\u003e, and providing better \u003cstrong\u003epolicy incentives\u003c/strong\u003e can help ease economic challenges. Finally, increasing support for \u003cstrong\u003epublic‒private partnerships\u003c/strong\u003e and \u003cstrong\u003eregulatory frameworks\u003c/strong\u003e will drive the necessary advancements in renewable energy systems, ensuring their long-term sustainability and reducing their environmental footprint.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBy focusing on these key areas, renewable energy solutions can overcome their current limitations, thus contributing to a more sustainable, efficient, and equitable global energy future.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"References","content":"\u003col\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAng TZ, Salem M, Kamarol M, Das HS, Nazari MA, Prabaharan N (2022) A comprehensive study of renewable energy sources: Classifications, challenges and suggestions. Energy Strategy Reviews, 43, p.100939\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHafez FS, Sa'di B, Safa-Gamal M, Taufiq-Yap YH, Alrifaey M, Seyedmahmoudian M, Stojcevski A, Horan B, Mekhilef S (2023) Energy efficiency in sustainable buildings: a systematic review with taxonomy, challenges, motivations, methodological aspects, recommendations, and pathways for future research. Energy Strategy Reviews, 45, p.101013\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEjsmont K, Gladysz B, Kluczek A (2020) Impact of industry 4.0 on sustainability\u0026mdash;bibliometric literature review. Sustainability 12(14):5650\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eKirli D, Couraud B, Robu V, Salgado-Bravo M, Norbu S, Andoni M, Antonopoulos I, Negrete-Pincetic M, Flynn D, Kiprakis A (2022) Smart contracts in energy systems: A systematic review of fundamental approaches and implementations, vol 158. Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, p 112013\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAguilar J, Garces-Jimenez A, R-moreno MD, Garc\u0026iacute;a R (2021) A systematic literature review on the use of artificial intelligence in energy self-management in smart buildings. Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, 151, p.111530\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eKhan SA, Ko\u0026ccedil; M, Al-Ghamdi SG (2021) Sustainability assessment, potentials and challenges of 3D printed concrete structures: A systematic review for built environmental applications. Journal of Cleaner Production, 303, p.127027\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBibri SE, Krogstie J, Kaboli A, Alahi A (2024) Smarter eco-cities and their leading-edge artificial intelligence of things solutions for environmental sustainability: A comprehensive systematic review. Environmental Science and Ecotechnology, 19, p.100330\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eNemmour A, Inayat A, Janajreh I, Ghenai C (2023) Green hydrogen-based E-fuels (E-methane, E-methanol, E-ammonia) to support clean energy transition: A literature review. Int J Hydrog Energy 48(75):29011\u0026ndash;29033\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSiksnelyte-Butkiene I, Streimikiene D, Lekavicius V, Balezentis T (2021) Energy poverty indicators: A systematic literature review and comprehensive analysis of integrity. Sustainable Cities Soc 67:102756\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eChing NT, Ghobakhloo M, Iranmanesh M, Maroufkhani P, Asadi S (2022) Industry 4.0 applications for sustainable manufacturing: A systematic literature review and a roadmap to sustainable development. Journal of Cleaner Production, 334, p.130133\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSetiyo M, Yuvenda D, Samuel OD (2021) The Concise latest report on the advantages and disadvantages of pure biodiesel (B100) on engine performance: Literature review and bibliometric analysis. Indonesian J Sci Technol 6(3):469\u0026ndash;490\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMachlev R, Heistrene L, Perl M, Levy KY, Belikov J, Mannor S, Levron Y (2022) Explainable Artificial Intelligence (XAI) techniques for energy and power systems: Review, challenges and opportunities. Energy AI 9:100169\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAntonopoulos I, Robu V, Couraud B, Kirli D, Norbu S, Kiprakis A, Flynn D, Elizondo-Gonzalez S, Wattam S (2020) Artificial intelligence and machine learning approaches to energy demand-side response: A systematic review. Renew Sustain Energy Rev 130:109899\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBhuiyan MA, Zhang Q, Khare V, Mikhaylov A, Pinter G, Huang X (2022) Renewable energy consumption and economic growth nexus\u0026mdash;a systematic literature review. Frontiers in environmental science, 10, p.878394\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eElalfy DA, Gouda E, Kotb MF, Bureš V, Sedhom BE (2024) Comprehensive review of energy storage systems technologies, objectives, challenges, and future trends. Energy Strategy Reviews, 54, p.101482\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDel Rio DDF, Sovacool BK, Foley AM, Griffiths S, Bazilian M, Kim J, Rooney D (2022) Decarbonizing the glass industry: A critical and systematic review of developments, sociotechnical systems and policy options. Renew Sustain Energy Rev 155:111885\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAbbasi R, Martinez P, Ahmad R (2022) The digitization of agricultural industry\u0026ndash;a systematic literature review on agriculture 4.0. Smart Agricultural Technology, 2, p.100042\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCosta-Carrapi\u0026ccedil;o I, Raslan R, Gonz\u0026aacute;lez JN (2020) A systematic review of genetic algorithm-based multi-objective optimisation for building retrofitting strategies towards energy efficiency. Energy and Buildings, 210, p.109690\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSovacool BK, Bazilian M, Griffiths S, Kim J, Foley A, Rooney D (2021) Decarbonizing the food and beverages industry: A critical and systematic review of developments, sociotechnical systems and policy options. Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, 143, p.110856\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLi H, Wang Z, Hong T, Piette MA (2021) Energy flexibility of residential buildings: A systematic review of characterization and quantification methods and applications. Advances in Applied Energy, 3, p.100054\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBanos R, Manzano-Agugliaro F, Montoya FG, Gil C, Alcayde A, G\u0026oacute;mez J (2011) Optimization methods applied to renewable and sustainable energy: A review. Renew Sustain Energy Rev 15(4):1753\u0026ndash;1766\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eQazi A, Hussain F, Rahim NA, Hardaker G, Alghazzawi D, Shaban K, Haruna K (2019) Towards sustainable energy: a systematic review of renewable energy sources, technologies, and public opinions. IEEE access 7:63837\u0026ndash;63851\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eZheng XF, Liu CX, Yan YY, Wang Q (2014) A review of thermoelectrics research\u0026ndash;Recent developments and potentials for sustainable and renewable energy applications. Renew Sustain Energy Rev 32:486\u0026ndash;503\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAl-Shahri, O. A., Ismail, F. B., Hannan, M. A., Lipu, M. H., Al-Shetwi, A. Q., Begum,R. A., \u0026hellip; Soujeri, E. (2021). Solar photovoltaic energy optimization methods, challenges and issues: A comprehensive review. Journal of Cleaner Production, 284, 125465.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAl-Shetwi AQ (2022) Sustainable development of renewable energy integrated power sector: Trends, environmental impacts, and recent challenges. Sci Total Environ 822:153645\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThirunavukkarasu M, Sawle Y, Lala H (2023) A comprehensive review on optimization of hybrid renewable energy systems using various optimization techniques. Renew Sustain Energy Rev 176:113192\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMousavi S, Villarreal-Marroqu\u0026iacute;n MG, Hajiaghaei-Keshteli M, Smith NR (2023) Data-driven prediction and optimization toward net-zero and positive-energy buildings: A systematic review. Build Environ 242:110578\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eKar AK, Choudhary SK, Singh VK (2022) How can artificial intelligence impact sustainability: A systematic literature review. J Clean Prod 376:134120\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMoshood TD, Nawanir G, Mahmud F (2021) Microalgae biofuels production: A systematic review on socioeconomic prospects of microalgae biofuels and policy implications. Environ Challenges 5:100207\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSahoo SK, Goswami SS (2023) A comprehensive review of multiple criteria decision-making (MCDM) Methods: advancements, applications, and future directions. Decis Mak Adv 1(1):25\u0026ndash;48\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eKim H, Choi H, Kang H, An J, Yeom S, Hong T (2021) A systematic review of the smart energy conservation system: From smart homes to sustainable smart cities. Renew Sustain Energy Rev 140:110755\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSetiyo M, Yuvenda D, Samuel OD (2021) The Concise latest report on the advantages and disadvantages of pure biodiesel (B100) on engine performance: Literature review and bibliometric analysis. Indonesian J Sci Technol 6(3):469\u0026ndash;490\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAlam K, Mostakim MA, Baki AA, Hossen MS (2024) CURRENT TRENDS IN PHOTOVOLTAIC THERMAL (PVT) SYSTEMS: A REVIEW OF TECHNOLOGIES AND SUSTAINABLE ENERGY SOLUTIONS. Acad J Bus Adm Innov Sustain 4(04):128\u0026ndash;143\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGržanić M, Capuder T, Zhang N, Huang W (2022) Prosumers as active market participants: A systematic review of evolution of opportunities, models and challenges. Renew Sustain Energy Rev 154:111859\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBharany, S., Sharma, S., Khalaf, O. I., Abdulsahib, G. M., Al Humaimeedy, A. S., Aldhyani,T. H., \u0026hellip; Alkahtani, H. (2022). A systematic survey on energy-efficient techniques in sustainable cloud computing. Sustainability, 14(10), 6256.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDel Rio DDF, Sovacool BK, Foley AM, Griffiths S, Bazilian M, Kim J, Rooney D (2022) Decarbonizing the glass industry: A critical and systematic review of developments, sociotechnical systems and policy options. Renew Sustain Energy Rev 155:111885\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBhuiyan MA, Zhang Q, Khare V, Mikhaylov A, Pinter G, Huang X (2022) Renewable energy consumption and economic growth nexus\u0026mdash;a systematic literature review. Front Environ Sci 10:878394\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSharifi A, Dawodu A, Cheshmehzangi A (2021) Limitations in assessment methodologies of neighborhood sustainability assessment tools: A literature review. Sustainable Cities Soc 67:102739\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLe TT, Sharma P, Bora BJ, Tran VD, Truong TH, Le HC, Nguyen PQP (2024) Fueling the future: A comprehensive review of hydrogen energy systems and their challenges. Int J Hydrog Energy 54:791\u0026ndash;816\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eShaqsi AZA, Sopian K, Al-Hinai A (2020) Review of energy storage services, applications, limitations, and benefits. Energy Rep 6:288\u0026ndash;306\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLi W, Yigitcanlar T, Erol I, Liu A (2021) Motivations, barriers and risks of smart home adoption: From systematic literature review to conceptual framework. Energy Res Social Sci 80:102211\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eZahraee SM, Shiwakoti N, Stasinopoulos P (2020) Biomass supply chain environmental and socio-economic analysis: 40-Years comprehensive review of methods, decision issues, sustainability challenges, and the way forward. Biomass Bioenergy 142:105777\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eKhanfar AA, Iranmanesh M, Ghobakhloo M, Senali MG, Fathi M (2021) Applications of blockchain technology in sustainable manufacturing and supply chain management: A systematic review. Sustainability 13(14):7870\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAbduljabbar RL, Liyanage S, Dia H (2021) The role of micro-mobility in shaping sustainable cities: A systematic literature review. Transp Res part D: Transp Environ 92:102734\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDelle Foglie A, Keshminder JS (2024) Challenges and opportunities of SRI sukuk toward financial system sustainability: a bibliometric and systematic literature review. Int J Emerg Markets 19(10):3202\u0026ndash;3225\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMizik T, Gyarmati G (2021) Economic and sustainability of biodiesel production\u0026mdash;a systematic literature review. Clean Technol 3(1):19\u0026ndash;36\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eParmentola A, Petrillo A, Tutore I, De Felice F (2022) Is blockchain able to enhance environmental sustainability? A systematic review and research agenda from the perspective of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Bus Strategy Environ 31(1):194\u0026ndash;217\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGriffiths S, Sovacool BK, Kim J, Bazilian M, Uratani JM (2021) Industrial decarbonization via hydrogen: A critical and systematic review of developments, socio-technical systems and policy options. Energy Res Social Sci 80:102208\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLevenda AM, Behrsin I, Disano F (2021) Renewable energy for whom? A global systematic review of the environmental justice implications of renewable energy technologies. Energy Res Social Sci 71:101837\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAabid, A., Raheman, M. A., Ibrahim, Y. E., Anjum, A., Hrairi, M., Parveez, B., \u0026hellip; Mohammed Zayan, J. (2021). A systematic review of piezoelectric materials and energy harvesters for industrial applications. Sensors, 21(12), 4145.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMourtzis D, Angelopoulos J, Panopoulos N (2022) A Literature Review of the Challenges and Opportunities of the Transition from Industry 4.0 to Society 5.0. Energies 15(17):6276\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBot\u0026iacute;n-Sanabria DM, Mihaita AS, Peimbert-Garc\u0026iacute;a RE, Ram\u0026iacute;rez-Moreno MA, Ram\u0026iacute;rez-Mendoza RA, Lozoya-Santos JDJ (2022) Digital twin technology challenges and applications: A comprehensive review. Remote Sens 14(6):1335\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eKanger L, Sovacool BK, Noork\u0026otilde;iv M (2020) Six policy intervention points for sustainability transitions: A conceptual framework and a systematic literature review. Res Policy 49(7):104072\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRaman R, Gunasekar S, D\u0026aacute;vid LD, Nedungadi P (2024) Aligning sustainable aviation fuel research with sustainable development goals: Trends and thematic analysis. Energy Rep 12:2642\u0026ndash;2652\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTandon A, Kaur P, M\u0026auml;ntym\u0026auml;ki M, Dhir A (2021) Blockchain applications in management: A bibliometric analysis and literature review. Technol Forecast Soc Chang 166:120649\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eNurelmadina, N., Hasan, M. K., Memon, I., Saeed, R. A., Zainol Ariffin, K. A., Ali,E. S., \u0026hellip; Hassan, M. A. (2021). A systematic review on cognitive radio in low power wide area network for industrial IoT applications. Sustainability, 13(1), 338.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eKourougianni F, Arsalis A, Olympios AV, Yiasoumas G, Konstantinou C, Papanastasiou P, Georghiou GE (2024) A comprehensive review of green hydrogen energy systems. Renewable Energy, 120911\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eZaid O, Sor NAH, Mart\u0026iacute;nez-Garc\u0026iacute;a R, de Prado-Gil J, Elhadi KM, Yosri AM (2024) Sustainability evaluation, engineering properties and challenges relevant to geopolymer concrete modified with different nanomaterials: A systematic review. Ain Shams Eng J 15(2):102373\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eVrchota J, Pech M, Rolinek L, Bedn\u0026aacute;ř J (2020) Sustainability outcomes of green processes in relation to industry 4.0 in manufacturing: Systematic review. Sustainability 12(15):5968\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRanjan M, Shankar R (2022) A literature survey on load frequency control considering renewable energy integration in power system: Recent trends and future prospects. J Energy Storage 45:103717\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGhobakhloo M, Fathi M, Iranmanesh M, Maroufkhani P, Morales ME (2021) Industry 4.0 ten years on: A bibliometric and systematic review of concepts, sustainability value drivers, and success determinants. J Clean Prod 302:127052\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLohiya R, Thakkar A (2020) Application domains, evaluation data sets, and research challenges of IoT: A systematic review. IEEE Internet Things J 8(11):8774\u0026ndash;8798\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMeena SB, Patil PR, Kandharkar SR, Hemalatha N, Khade A, Dixit KK, Chinthamu N (2024) The Evolution Of Smart Grid Technologies: Integrating Renewable Energy Sources, Energy Storage, And Demand Response Systems For Efficient Energy Distribution. Nanatechnol Perceptions, 1098\u0026ndash;1109\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHe R, Luo L, Shamsuddin A, Tang Q (2022) Corporate carbon accounting: a literature review of carbon accounting research from the Kyoto Protocol to the Paris Agreement. Acc Finance 62(1):261\u0026ndash;298\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eVisentin C, da Silva Trentin AW, Braun AB, Thom\u0026eacute; A (2020) Life cycle sustainability assessment: A systematic literature review through the application perspective, indicators, and methodologies. J Clean Prod 270:122509\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDanish MSS, Bhattacharya A, Stepanova D, Mikhaylov A, Grilli ML, Khosravy M, Senjyu T (2020) A systematic review of metal oxide applications for energy and environmental sustainability. Metals 10(12):1604\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eParekh R, Trabucco D (2024) Recent Progress in Integrating BIM and LCA for Sustainable Construction: A Review. International Journal of Science and Research Archive, 13(01)\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLu C, Li S, Lu Z (2022) Building energy prediction using artificial neural networks: A literature survey. Energy Build 262:111718\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePurchase CK, Zulayq A, O\u0026rsquo;Brien DM, Kowalewski BT, Berenjian MJ, Tarighaleslami A, A. H., Seifan M (2021) Circular economy of construction and demolition waste: A literature review on lessons, challenges, and benefits. Materials 15(1):76\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePessoa S, Guimar\u0026atilde;es AS, Lucas SS, Sim\u0026otilde;es N (2021) 3D printing in the construction industry-A systematic review of the thermal performance in buildings. Renew Sustain Energy Rev 141:110794\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCosta-Carrapi\u0026ccedil;o I, Raslan R, Gonz\u0026aacute;lez JN (2020) A systematic review of genetic algorithm-based multi-objective optimisation for building retrofitting strategies towards energy efficiency. Energy Build 210:109690\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eKumar B, Kumar L, Kumar A, Kumari R, Tagar U, Sassanelli C (2024) Green finance in circular economy: a literature review. Environ Dev Sustain 26(7):16419\u0026ndash;16459\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHe W, King M, Luo X, Dooner M, Li D, Wang J (2021) Technologies and economics of electric energy storages in power systems: Review and perspective. Adv Appl Energy 4:100060\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTian G, Yuan G, Aleksandrov A, Zhang T, Li Z, Fathollahi-Fard AM, Ivanov M (2022) Recycling of spent Lithium-ion Batteries: A comprehensive review for identification of main challenges and future research trends. Sustain Energy Technol Assess 53:102447\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePatella SM, Grazieschi G, Gatta V, Marcucci E, Carrese S (2020) The adoption of green vehicles in last mile logistics: A systematic review. Sustainability 13(1):6\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBach H, Bergek A, Bj\u0026oslash;rgum \u0026Oslash;, Hansen T, Kenzhegaliyeva A, Steen M (2020) Implementing maritime battery-electric and hydrogen solutions: A technological innovation systems analysis. Transp Res Part D: Transp Environ 87:102492\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePaul A, Shukla N, Paul SK, Trianni A (2021) Sustainable supply chain management and multi-criteria decision-making methods: A systematic review. Sustainability 13(13):7104\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMeng F, Meng Y, Ju T, Han S, Lin L, Jiang J (2022) Research progress of aqueous amine solution for CO2 capture: A review. Renew Sustain Energy Rev 168:112902\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMasoomi B, Sahebi IG, Fathi M, Yıldırım F, Ghorbani S (2022) Strategic supplier selection for renewable energy supply chain under green capabilities (fuzzy BWM-WASPAS-COPRAS approach). Energy Strategy Reviews 40:100815\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAsghari M, Al-e SMJM (2021) Green vehicle routing problem: A state-of-the-art review. Int J Prod Econ 231:107899\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBroccardo L, Zicari A, Jabeen F, Bhatti ZA (2023) How digitalization supports a sustainable business model: A literature review. Technol Forecast Soc Chang 187:122146\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGill SS, Kumar A, Singh H, Singh M, Kaur K, Usman M, Buyya R (2022) Quantum computing: A taxonomy, systematic review and future directions. Software: Pract Experience 52(1):66\u0026ndash;114\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRangel-Martinez D, Nigam KDP, Ricardez-Sandoval LA (2021) Machine learning on sustainable energy: A review and outlook on renewable energy systems, catalysis, smart grid and energy storage. Chem Eng Res Des 174:414\u0026ndash;441\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eShokri A, Fard MS (2022) A sustainable approach in water desalination with the integration of renewable energy sources: Environmental engineering challenges and perspectives. Environ Adv 9:100281\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLima L, Trindade E, Alencar L, Alencar M, Silva L (2021) Sustainability in the construction industry: A systematic review of the literature. J Clean Prod 289:125730\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBibri SE (2021) Data-driven smart sustainable cities of the future: An evidence synthesis approach to a comprehensive state-of-the-art literature review. Sustainable Futures 3:100047\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDi Vaio A, Hassan R, Chhabra M, Arrigo E, Palladino R (2022) Sustainable entrepreneurship impact and entrepreneurial venture life cycle: A systematic literature review. J Clean Prod 378:134469\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLai X, Huang Y, Gu H, Deng C, Han X, Feng X, Zheng Y (2021) Turning waste into wealth: A systematic review on echelon utilization and material recycling of retired lithium-ion batteries. Energy Storage Mater 40:96\u0026ndash;123\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSantagata R, Ripa M, Genovese A, Ulgiati S (2021) Food waste recovery pathways: Challenges and opportunities for an emerging bio-based circular economy. A systematic review and an assessment. J Clean Prod 286:125490\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSoltanisehat L, Alizadeh R, Hao H, Choo KKR (2020) Technical, temporal, and spatial research challenges and opportunities in blockchain-based healthcare: A systematic literature review. IEEE Trans Eng Manage 70(1):353\u0026ndash;368\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eArsad AZ, Hannan MA, Al-Shetwi AQ, Mansur M, Muttaqi KM, Dong ZY, Blaabjerg F (2022) Hydrogen energy storage integrated hybrid renewable energy systems: A review analysis for future research directions. Int J Hydrog Energy 47(39):17285\u0026ndash;17312\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSadeghian O, Oshnoei A, Mohammadi-Ivatloo B, Vahidinasab V, Anvari-Moghaddam A (2022) A comprehensive review on electric vehicles smart charging: Solutions, strategies, technologies, and challenges. J Energy Storage 54:105241\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOnggirawan CA, Kho JM, Kartiwa AP, Gunawan AA (2023) Systematic literature review: The adaptation of distance learning process during the COVID-19 pandemic using virtual educational spaces in metaverse. Procedia Comput Sci 216:274\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePutra, N. R., Yustisia, Y., Heryanto, R. B., Asmaliyah, A., Miswarti, M., Rizkiyah,D. N., \u0026hellip; Rohman, G. A. N. (2023). Advancements and challenges in green extraction techniques for Indonesian natural products: A review. South African Journal of Chemical Engineering, 46(1), 88\u0026ndash;98.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMaroufkhani P, Desouza KC, Perrons RK, Iranmanesh M (2022) Digital transformation in the resource and energy sectors: A systematic review. Resour Policy 76:102622\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePerera ATD, Kamalaruban P (2021) Applications of reinforcement learning in energy systems. Renew Sustain Energy Rev 137:110618\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMerabet, G. H., Essaaidi, M., Haddou, M. B., Qolomany, B., Qadir, J., Anan, M., \u0026hellip;Benhaddou, D. (2021). Intelligent building control systems for thermal comfort and energy-efficiency: A systematic review of artificial intelligence-assisted techniques.Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, 144, 110969.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLi L, Ling TC, Pan SY (2022) Environmental benefit assessment of steel slag utilization and carbonation: A systematic review. Sci Total Environ 806:150280\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBibak B, Tekiner-Moğulko\u0026ccedil; H (2021) A comprehensive analysis of Vehicle to Grid (V2G) systems and scholarly literature on the application of such systems. Renew Energy Focus 36:1\u0026ndash;20\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eStreimikiene D, Svagzdiene B, Jasinskas E, Simanavicius A (2021) Sustainable tourism development and competitiveness: The systematic literature review. Sustain Dev 29(1):259\u0026ndash;271\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ol\u003e"}],"fulltextSource":"","fullText":"","funders":[],"hasAdminPriorityOnWorkflow":false,"hasManuscriptDocX":true,"hasOptedInToPreprint":true,"hasPassedJournalQc":"","hasAnyPriority":true,"hideJournal":true,"highlight":"","institution":"Daystar HRM \u0026 Market Research Centre","isAcceptedByJournal":false,"isAuthorSuppliedPdf":false,"isDeskRejected":"","isHiddenFromSearch":false,"isInQc":false,"isInWorkflow":false,"isPdf":false,"isPdfUpToDate":true,"isWithdrawnOrRetracted":false,"journal":{"display":true,"email":"
[email protected]","identity":"researchsquare","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":true,"externalIdentity":"","sideBox":"","snPcode":"","submissionUrl":"/submission","title":"Research Square","twitterHandle":"researchsquare","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":false,"editorialSystem":"","reportingPortfolio":"","inReviewEnabled":false,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true},"keywords":"Renewable Energy Integration, Energy Storage Challenges, Economic Barriers, Environmental Impacts, Policy Recommendations, Sustainable Energy Solutions, Circular Economy Practices","lastPublishedDoi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-5740831/v1","lastPublishedDoiUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-5740831/v1","license":{"name":"CC BY 4.0","url":"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/"},"manuscriptAbstract":"\u003cp\u003eThis study explores the limitations and future pathways for integrating renewable energy solutions, focusing on technical, economic, and environmental challenges. The primary objective is to identify barriers to renewable energy adoption, including energy storage inefficiencies, high initial costs, and environmental impacts, and propose recommendations to overcome them. Using a systematic literature review approach, the study employed \u003cstrong\u003ekeyword searching\u003c/strong\u003e across academic databases with terms such as \u003cem\u003erenewable energy limitations\u003c/em\u003e, \u003cem\u003eenergy storage technologies\u003c/em\u003e, and \u003cem\u003epolicy incentives\u003c/em\u003e. We had selected studies from 2020-2024 that focused on renewable energy challenges and solutions, while excluding articles unrelated to energy storage, economic factors, or policy recommendations.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe findings reveal that \u003cstrong\u003e60% of projects\u003c/strong\u003e cite energy storage limitations, \u003cstrong\u003e70% highlight economic barriers\u003c/strong\u003e, and \u003cstrong\u003e40% note environmental concerns\u003c/strong\u003e due to the disposal of renewable energy materials. Lithium-ion batteries dominate energy storage but suffer from \u003cstrong\u003ehigh costs and limited lifespans\u003c/strong\u003e, while the high upfront investment remains a key economic hurdle, particularly in low-income regions. Environmental issues, such as harmful material disposal and fluctuating raw material prices, further hinder adoption.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe study acknowledges limitations, including reliance on secondary data and the focus on specific renewable technologies, which may not capture the full spectrum of regional variations. Despite these constraints, the findings emphasize the need for \u003cstrong\u003eadvanced storage technologies\u003c/strong\u003e like hydrogen and thermal systems, \u003cstrong\u003esubsidies to reduce costs\u003c/strong\u003e, and \u003cstrong\u003eenhanced recycling methods\u003c/strong\u003e to mitigate environmental impacts.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKey recommendations include strengthening \u003cstrong\u003epolicy frameworks\u003c/strong\u003e to incentivize green technology investments, fostering \u003cstrong\u003epublic-private partnerships\u003c/strong\u003e for innovation, and advancing \u003cstrong\u003ecircular economy practices\u003c/strong\u003e to promote sustainability. Addressing these challenges is critical for ensuring the global transition to renewable energy systems that are both efficient and sustainable.\u003c/p\u003e","manuscriptTitle":"A Systematic Review of Sustainable Renewable Energy Applications, Procedures, Challenges, and Limitations","msid":"","msnumber":"","nonDraftVersions":[{"code":1,"date":"2025-01-09 07:02:51","doi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-5740831/v1","editorialEvents":[{"type":"communityComments","content":0}],"status":"published","journal":{"display":true,"email":"
[email protected]","identity":"researchsquare","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":true,"externalIdentity":"","sideBox":"","snPcode":"","submissionUrl":"/submission","title":"Research Square","twitterHandle":"researchsquare","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":false,"editorialSystem":"","reportingPortfolio":"","inReviewEnabled":false,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true}}],"origin":"","ownerIdentity":"ac456d23-87e8-4053-8e60-62967678bbf6","owner":[],"postedDate":"January 9th, 2025","published":true,"recentEditorialEvents":[],"rejectedJournal":[],"revision":"","amendment":"","status":"posted","subjectAreas":[],"tags":[],"updatedAt":"2025-01-09T07:02:51+00:00","versionOfRecord":[],"versionCreatedAt":"2025-01-09 07:02:51","video":"","vorDoi":"","vorDoiUrl":"","workflowStages":[]},"version":"v1","identity":"rs-5740831","journalConfig":"researchsquare"},"__N_SSP":true},"page":"/article/[identity]/[[...version]]","query":{"redirect":"/article/rs-5740831","identity":"rs-5740831","version":["v1"]},"buildId":"8U1c8b4HqxoKbykW_rLl7","isFallback":false,"isExperimentalCompile":false,"dynamicIds":[84888],"gssp":true,"scriptLoader":[]}
Text is read by the "Ask this paper" AI Q&A widget below.
Extraction quality varies by source — PMC NXML preserves structure
cleanly, OA-HTML may include some navigation residue, and OA-PDF can
have broken hyphenation. The publisher copy
(via DOI)
is the canonical version.