Unveiling the conceptual and intellectual structure of solar energy research in India: ascientometric approach

Purpose This study aims to investigate the publication trends and the conceptual and structural framework of solar energy research published in India from 1989 to 2022. This study seeks to provide insights into the evolving landscape of solar energy research, particularly in the context of increasing global emphasis on renewable energy resources. Design/methodology/approach A comprehensive data set comprising 16,623 articles was retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection. A systematic search strategy was used using a Boolean search string of 13 related and synonymous terms, to ensure precise subject coverage. The analysis used various bibliometric tools, including MS Excel, Biblioshiny and VOSviewer, to conduct descriptive, network and thematic analyses of the literature. The results were evaluated to map the conceptual and intellectual structure of solar energy research in India. Findings The results indicate a significant annual growth rate of 16.06% in solar energy publications, with a marked increase post-2015. The average age of documents is 7.63 years, and the total citations reached 319,307, averaging 19.21 citations per article. The data set features 33,503 authors, with 28.5% of documents involving international co-authorship. Key research themes identified include efficiency, solar energy and photovoltaics, reflecting the interdisciplinary nature of the field. Practical implications The findings highlight the growing commitment to solar energy research in India, which is crucial for addressing energy challenges and advancing sustainable practices. The insights gained can inform policymakers, researchers and industry stakeholders about the current trends and future directions in solar energy research. Originality/value This study provides a comprehensive analysis of solar energy research in India over a 34-year period. The study’s use of advanced bibliometric techniques to map the conceptual and intellectual structure of the field offers valuable insights into the research dynamics shaping India’s solar energy landscape.