A Review of Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM) Applications to Solve Energy Management Problems From 2010-2025: Current State and Future Research
Sushil Kumar Sahoo, Dragan Pamucar, Shankha Shubhra Goswami
Abstract
Energy management is a critical challenge in the global effort to achieve sustainability, improve efficiency, and balance economic and environmental priorities. Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM) techniques have emerged as powerful tools to address complex and competing criteria in energy systems. This paper reviews the current state of MCDM applications in energy management, focusing on renewable energy systems, energy efficiency, grid management, and policy planning from 2010-2025 using bibliometric analysis. It identifies popular methods such as AHP, TOPSIS, and hybrid models, highlighting their strengths and limitations. The analysis reveals trends, gaps, and challenges, such as handling uncertainty, integrating real-time data, and adapting to dynamic energy environments. Future research directions emphasize leveraging advanced technologies like artificial intelligence, blockchain, and IoT to enhance MCDM models and expanding their application to emerging areas like microgrids and sustainable urban systems. This review provides a comprehensive understanding of the field and outlines a roadmap for advancing MCDM applications in solving energy management problems.