Machine Learning for Photovoltaic Power Forecasting Integrated with Energy Storage Systems: A Scientometric Analysis, Systematic Review, and Meta-Analysis

Photovoltaic (PV) power forecasting combined with energy storage systems (ESS) is critical for grid stability and renewable energy optimization. Machine learning (ML) techniques have shown promise in improving PV forecast accuracy and ESS operation. However, the intersection of PV forecasting and ESS control remains underexplored, warranting a systematic review of recent advances and evaluation of ML effectiveness in PV–ESS integration. To assess research trends in ML-based PV forecasting with ESS (scientometric analysis), synthesize state-of-the-art ML approaches for PV–ESS forecasting (systematic review), and quantify their overall predictive performance via meta-analysis of the coefficient of determination (R2). A comprehensive search of Scopus (2010–2025) was conducted following PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Studies focusing on ML-based PV power forecasting integrated with ESS were included. Multiple reviewers screened the records and extracted data. Study quality was appraised using Joanna Briggs Institute checklists. A random-effects meta-analysis of R2 was performed to aggregate model performance across studies. The search identified 227 records; 50 studies were included in the review and 5 in the meta-analysis. Publications grew rapidly after 2018, indicating increased interest in PV–ESS forecasting. Deep learning models and hybrid architectures were the most frequently studied and outperformed traditional methods, while integrating PV forecasts with ESS control consistently improved operational outcomes. Common methodological limitations were noted, such as limited external validation and non-standardized evaluation metrics. The meta-analysis found a pooled R2 ~0.95 (95% CI) with no heterogeneity (I2 = 0), and no evidence of publication bias. ML-based forecasting significantly improves PV–ESS performance, underscoring AI as a key enabler for effective PV–ESS integration. Future research should address remaining gaps and explore advanced approaches to further enhance PV–ESS outcomes.