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Sustainable Energy Transition for the Mining Industry: A Bibliometric Analysis of Trends and Emerging Research Pathways

Author

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  • A. Akofa Amegboleza

    (CRSSCA—The Centre for Research in Sustainable Supply Chain Analytics, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
    Department of Industrial Engineering, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada)

  • M. Ali Ülkü

    (CRSSCA—The Centre for Research in Sustainable Supply Chain Analytics, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
    Department of Industrial Engineering, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
    Department of Management Science & Information Systems, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada)

Abstract

The mining industry (MI), one of the largest energy consumers globally, is under increasing pressure to transition towards more sustainable energy systems. This paper explores the current trends in sustainable energy transition (SET) in mining operations, focusing on integrating renewable energy, decarbonization efforts, economic and technological enablers, and sustainability frameworks. Through a systematic literature review utilizing bibliometric tools such as Scopus and VOSviewer 1.6.20, this study identifies key themes, trends, and challenges shaping the future of energy transition in mining. Despite advancements in renewable technologies such as solar, wind, and hydrogen, the MI faces significant barriers, including high upfront costs, logistical challenges in remote operations, and inconsistent regional decarbonization policies. The review highlights the importance of global regulatory alignment, technological innovation, and financial mechanisms to overcome these challenges and accelerate the industry’s shift towards clean energy. Future research directions address gaps in renewable energy deployment, energy efficiency, and sustainability practices in the mining sector. This study aims to contribute to the academic discourse and provide actionable insights for industry stakeholders striving to achieve a SET.

Suggested Citation

  • A. Akofa Amegboleza & M. Ali Ülkü, 2025. "Sustainable Energy Transition for the Mining Industry: A Bibliometric Analysis of Trends and Emerging Research Pathways," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(5), pages 1-21, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:17:y:2025:i:5:p:2292-:d:1606547
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    1. Lo Basso, Gianluigi & Pastore, Lorenzo Mario & Sgaramella, Antonio & Mojtahed, Ali & Ciancio, Alessandro & Massulli, Axel Riccardo & Vespasiano, Domiziana & de Santoli, Livio, 2025. "Status and perspectives of hydrogen role for decarbonising industry: a comprehensive review," Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, Elsevier, vol. 224(C).
    2. Mohd Rizaimy Shaharudin & Jamaludin Akbar & Preecha Wararatchai & Sirion Son-ong & Sittichai Pintuma, 2025. "Pathways to Decarbonization: A Conceptual Framework Linking Renewable Energy Implementation Strategies to Sustainable Transitions Through Adaptive Technology Integration," International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science, International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS), vol. 9(14), pages 2245-2254, September.
    3. Asif Raihan & Syed Masiur Rahman & Mohammad Ridwan & Tapan Sarker, 2025. "FinTech Adoption and Its Influence on Sustainable Mineral Resource Management in the United States," Resources, MDPI, vol. 14(6), pages 1-21, June.

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