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A bibliometric analysis of oscillating-water-column wave energy converters: emerging trends and research frontiers

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  • Wu, Jiujiang
  • Jiang, Wenjie
  • Yang, Ting

Abstract

Wave energy offers a compelling opportunity for sustainable power generation, tapping into the ocean's vast renewable potential. Oscillating-water-column wave energy converters (OWC-WECs) are distinguished by their efficiency in capturing wave-induced energy. Unlike traditional reviews, this study represents the first comprehensive bibliometric and scientometric analysis of OWC-WEC research from 2004 to 2025, employing advanced visualization tools like VOSviewer, CiteSpace, and Bibliometrix. Through a careful review of 840 journal articles and 569 patents, it charts trends in publications, pinpoints influential journals, highlights key researchers, tracks global collaborations, and uncovers technological breakthroughs. Key journals, including Renewable Energy, Ocean Engineering, and Energy, drive advancements in this field. China emerges as the fastest-growing contributor in publication volume, the United States leads in technological innovation, and Portugal holds significant academic influence. Findings highlight a clear emphasis on boosting hydrodynamic performance through structural improvements, with significant strides in multi-chamber designs, refined geometric configurations, optimized OWC arrays, enhanced turbine efficiency and integrated breakwater. By synthesizing these insights, the study elucidates active research areas and critical challenges, providing a structured, multidimensional framework to guide future academic inquiry and practical developments in wave energy technology.

Suggested Citation

  • Wu, Jiujiang & Jiang, Wenjie & Yang, Ting, 2025. "A bibliometric analysis of oscillating-water-column wave energy converters: emerging trends and research frontiers," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 340(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:energy:v:340:y:2025:i:c:s0360544225050078
    DOI: 10.1016/j.energy.2025.139365
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