Fostering the transition to sustainable electricity systems: A hierarchical analysis framework

The aim of this research is to provide a comprehensive analysis framework for fostering the transition of electricity systems towards sustainability and energy security. In this sense, we first provide a critical taxonomy of extant studies, as these are mapped on strategic, tactical and operational levels of the hierarchical decision-making process. Sustainability constituents along with the considered supply or demand viewpoints are also mapped. Following, we recognize and classify the major elaborated performance metrics used to monitor and assess the sustainable performance of electricity systems. We then integrate the recognized decision-making process with the physical systems' perspective to demonstrate the complex and dynamic nature of the electricity systems. Our critical analysis reveals that sustainability and energy security are rapidly evolving research fields; however, the often myopic perspective of the reviewed studies hinders the effective evaluation and analysis of renewable energy systems. Our analysis further allows for the identification of gaps and overlaps in literature, as well as of future research areas.