Systematic mapping study on energy models with thermal energy carriers: Opportunities and challenges

This work presents a systematic literature review of energy systems, with a focus on thermal energy carriers. The study analyzes the modeling and representation of thermal or hybrid thermal-electric energy systems, as well as the management of demand and consumption flows within systems of varying purposes, consumption patterns, and size scales. The analysis examines publications on the topic from the last few decades, highlighting publication trends, main topics, and the importance of environmental and economic considerations. The topics related to energy systems and thermal energy are closely linked to fuel consumption and environmental concerns. Thus, the analysis of sustainability articles focuses on optimizing energy use, reducing CO2 and greenhouse gas emissions, decarbonizing heat and using renewable energy sources. The search parameters and methodology allowed for categorization of the reviewed articles based on different consumption sectors.