Organizational Strategies for Energy Sustainability: Systematic Review of the Literature Spanning 2020–2024

Abstract

Energy sustainability is a key strategic focus of organizations in the transition to renewable energy sources. This study conducted a systematic review of the literature published between 2020 and 2024 to identify energy sustainability strategies at the organizational level that optimize energy efficiency and reduce dependence on fossil fuels. Academic databases such as Scopus, ScienceDirect, and Web of Science were consulted, selecting 50 high-impact articles using inclusion criteria related to thematic relevance, timeliness, and methodological rigor. The results showed that digitization, circular economy, and technological innovation are fundamental pillars in energy sustainability. However, significant barriers, such as financial and regulatory restrictions, were identified that hinder the adoption of these strategies. Similarly, the integration of smart technologies and sustainable management models favors the optimization of energy consumption and compliance with environmental regulations. In conclusion, the implementation of these strategies not only contributes to the mitigation of climate change but also improves the operational efficiency of organizations for the formulation of public policies and the possibility of opening new lines of research in energy sustainability.

1. Introduction

1.1. Historical Context and Current Challenges in Energy Sustainability

Throughout history, access to energy, and its efficient use have been fundamental pillars of economic and social development. Nevertheless, the prevailing reliance on fossil fuels and their concomitant environmental implications have given rise to a pressing imperative to transition towards sustainable energy models. In this domain, organizations confront the challenge of adapting their strategies to enhance energy efficiency, curtail their carbon footprint, and integrate renewable sources into their processes. Environmental and regulatory imperatives are driving energy sustainability, making it an opportunity for innovation and competitiveness. Therefore, understanding the organizational strategies that facilitate this transition is essential to designing effective policies and promoting sustainable development.

Transformation towards energy sustainability is regarded as one of the most significant contemporary organizational challenges, given the critical role that energy plays in economic development and the mitigation of climate change. In this regard, fundamental changes in energy sector strategies have been documented, evidencing a 28% increase in sustainability initiatives. Nevertheless, the effective implementation of sustainable energy strategies exhibits considerable variation across different geographic and sectoral domains [1]. In the Latin American context, organizations encounter a number of obstacles that are distinct from, and perhaps more significant than, those experienced in other regions. These obstacles include a region-wide dependence on fossil fuels, a tendency towards regulatory instability, and pervasive financial constraints [2]. Consequently, the formulation of efficient strategies for energy sustainability has become a global priority for both the public and private sectors.

1.2. Global Requirements and Regional Initiatives for Energy Transition

The necessity to expedite the transition to renewable energy sources is driven by a converging set of demands, including but not limited to climate change, resource scarcity, and mounting regulatory pressures [3,4]. Consequently, nations such as Mexico, Brazil, Chile, Costa Rica, and Colombia have instituted policies with the objective of diversifying the energy matrix and enhancing consumption efficiency. Nevertheless, the implementation of these initiatives has been impeded by several structural barriers, including the absence of adequate financial incentives, the high cost of clean technologies, and organizational resistance to change [5].

The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) has made the following statement: ref. [3]—achieving a 45% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by the year 2030 is imperative to restrict the rise in global temperatures to 1.5 °C. To this end, it is crucial for organizations to implement strategies that enhance energy efficiency, promote the electrification of processes, and foster the integration of renewable energies [3,4]. Nevertheless, for organizations to achieve an effective energy transition, they must surmount economic, regulatory, and technological barriers that impede the adoption of new strategies. To this end, it is imperative to examine the role of economic, regulatory, and technological factors in shaping the adoption of novel energy strategies [6].

In Latin America, various initiatives have been implemented to address the need for increased access to energy and the diversification of energy sources. The 2030 Sustainable Energy Strategy of the countries of the Central American Integration System (SICA) has led to significant progress in Costa Rica and Guatemala. Nevertheless, these endeavors have proven inadequate in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly with regard to reducing reliance on fossil fuels and enhancing energy efficiency [4]. In contrast, nations in the Southern Cone and the Andean Zone encounter significant challenges in reducing their carbon footprint due to the confluence of economic and technological limitations [5].

Moreover, the region’s energy sustainability faces an additional challenge due to the persistent reliance on fossil fuels in the industrial, commercial, and residential sectors [5]. In addressing this issue, the Energy Sustainability Guide underscores the significance of organizations establishing internal policies that encourage the utilization of non-conventional renewable energy sources (NCREFs) and comprehensive energy efficiency strategies. These strategies encompass modernizing infrastructure, adopting monitoring technologies, and optimizing energy consumption to minimize the carbon footprint [5,6].

1.3. Strategic Pillars and Competitive Advantages of Energy Sustainability

From a strategic perspective, three fundamental pillars for the transformation of energy in the region have been identified. First, the optimization of energy consumption through the implementation of efficient practices in production, distribution, and use is identified as a key strategy to reduce operating costs and minimize environmental impact. Second, the diversification of the energy matrix through the integration of renewable sources such as solar, wind, and biomass, taking advantage of the high radiation rates, is imperative. Third, the abundance of natural resources in several Latin American countries must be exploited. Consequently, the implementation of advanced energy management technologies facilitates real-time monitoring and decision-making processes, thereby enhancing operational efficiency and ensuring compliance with increasingly stringent environmental regulations [3,6].

The recent literature in this field has demonstrated that the implementation of organizational strategies focused on energy sustainability is a response to an urgent environmental imperative. Simultaneously, this practice offers a competitive advantage to companies [6]. Indeed, enterprises that allocate resources to energy efficiency and the transition to renewable energy sources have been shown to achieve cost reductions in their operations, enhance their corporate reputation, and facilitate their access to international markets in the context of increasingly stringent environmental regulations [4,6].

Nevertheless, energy sustainability in Latin America signifies a multifaceted challenge that necessitates collaborative efforts among governments, the private sector, and civil society [3,4]. The implementation of robust organizational strategies, grounded in energy efficiency and the adoption of renewable energies, is imperative for achieving sustainable, resilient, and equitable development in countries such as Mexico, Brazil, Chile, Costa Rica, and Colombia [3,5]. Nevertheless, the efficacy of these strategies is contingent upon the successful navigation of economic, technological, and regulatory impediments through the implementation of comprehensive public policies and the establishment of adequate financing mechanisms [4,6].

1.4. Recent Advances and Implementation Challenges

Recent advancements in organizational energy sustainability have been substantial [7]. This study developed an innovative hybrid orientation for the strategic selection of wind energy projects. This approach has been widely cited for its impact on the optimization of renewable energy investments. In a similar vein, [8] a number of key strategies have been identified for the implementation of green technologies in various industries, with the objective of achieving significant reductions in energy consumption [9]. The evidence presented indicates a clear correlation between digital transformation and the transition to circular and sustainable business models. This transition is characterized by the optimization of resource use and the minimization of energy waste [10].

Despite these advancements, significant challenges persist in the implementation of energy sustainability strategies. In the first instance, it is imperative to acknowledge that status-quo biases and a paucity of information transparency serve as substantial impediments to the adoption of sustainable technologies. In the second instance, [11] it is evident that while public–private partnerships are imperative for energy transition and sustainable development, their implementation is encumbered by administrative and financial impediments. In this regard, [12] this evidence underscores the complexities inherent in the integration of green innovations into organizational operations. These complexities are further exacerbated by the absence of economic incentives and the inherent resistance to change within conventional business structures.

1.5. Multidimensional Framework for Energy Sustainability

Energy sustainability is an integral concept, and its effective management requires a multidimensional vision that encompasses technological, economic, social, and environmental aspects. In this regard, the development of a robust conceptual framework is imperative to comprehend the evolution of business practices in the energy transition. Institutional Theory and Dynamic Capabilities Theory serve as foundational analytical frameworks, elucidating how organizations respond to external pressures, including environmental regulations and market demands, and how they cultivate internal capabilities to adapt to evolving dynamics in the energy landscape.

From a technological standpoint, the transition to renewable energy sources and the digitalization of production processes have played a pivotal role in ensuring energy sustainability. Technologies such as solar energy, wind energy, and energy storage have facilitated a reduction in environmental impact and improved efficiency in energy consumption. However, the successful integration of these technologies into energy systems is contingent upon the presence of the following two key factors: first, the ongoing development of advanced technological solutions; and second, the establishment of a robust regulatory framework and the availability of adequate infrastructure to support their large-scale implementation [3,7].

From an economic vantage point, the pursuit of energy sustainability is propelled by financial incentives and the pressing need to curtail operating expenditures. Investing in energy efficiency and the transition to renewable sources, in addition to reducing environmental impact, can strengthen a company’s competitiveness in the global market. The long-term profitability of these initiatives has been extensively documented, thereby substantiating the notion that the adoption of clean energy constitutes an environmental responsibility and represents a viable and sustainable financial strategy [8,10].

In the social sphere, energy sustainability exerts a direct influence on the well-being of communities. The implementation of energy sustainability measures has been demonstrated to contribute to the enhancement of equity in energy access, the improvement in quality of life, and the generation of employment opportunities in emerging sectors. However, for energy strategies to be successful, organizations must consider the social acceptance of new technologies, as resistance to change can represent a significant obstacle. Institutional theory is instrumental in elucidating the regulatory frameworks, social norms, and societal expectations that influence the adoption of sustainable practices within the energy sector [13].

Concurrently, the environmental dimension of energy sustainability endeavors to mitigate the effects of climate change by reducing the carbon footprint. This assertion is corroborated by the International Renewable Energy Agency [3]. Achieving a 45% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by the year 2030 is imperative. In order to achieve this objective, it is imperative that organizations develop strategies that integrate energy efficiency, electrification, and diversification of the energy matrix. These strategies are designed to minimize dependence on fossil fuels and transition towards a more sustainable energy model [14].

1.6. Theoretical Perspectives on Organizational Energy Strategies

Institutional Theory provides an essential analytical framework for understanding government regulations, competition within the industry, and consumer expectations in the adoption of energy sustainability strategies. Companies often respond to external pressures in a variety of ways. Some respond due to regulatory mandates, while others respond due to the actions of industry leaders. Many more respond as a result of professional and societal expectations [10,15]. In Latin America, regulatory fragmentation and persistent dependence on fossil fuels have constituted significant barriers to the transition to renewable energy sources. However, organizations that have aligned their practices with international sustainability standards have achieved greater stability and access to green financing, which has increased their growth and competitiveness [5,11].

Conversely, the Dynamic Capabilities Theory underscores the significance of organizations cultivating competencies to adapt to evolving environments, a pivotal consideration in the energy transition. According to this theoretical framework, organizational entities are required to possess the capacity to discern novel opportunities, reconfigure their respective resources, and leverage technological innovations to ensure their competitive standing within the market. This theoretical framework is particularly pertinent in the context of energy sustainability management, as it enables organizational entities to anticipate regulatory, technological, and consumption changes, thereby promoting a structural transformation towards more sustainable energy models [9,16].

In the context of energy sustainability, companies that have effectively positioned themselves as leaders in this field have utilized their dynamic capabilities to integrate renewable energies, digitize their operations, and optimize the use of resources. Recent reviews have indicated that open innovation has been a pivotal factor in this process, enabling organizations to collaborate with various actors in the energy ecosystem to expedite the transition to cleaner and more efficient sources [17].

There are various theoretical perspectives on the drivers of the energy transition. From an institutional direction, it is argued that this change is mainly driven by government regulations and policy pressures [15]. In contrast, the Dynamic Capabilities Theory argues that market pressure and technological innovation are the main drivers of change [9,16]. In this sense, theoretical frameworks are explored that can help explain the adoption of organizational strategies for energy sustainability in different sectors and geographical settings.

Coupled with an examination of the impact of regulatory and market pressures (Institutional Theory) on the adoption of energy sustainability strategies, as well as the role of organizational capabilities (Dynamic Capabilities Theory) in business adaptation to these changes to strengthen their performance.

1.7. Research Purpose and Knowledge Gaps

Energy sustainability must be addressed from a holistic approach that considers its multiple dimensions as follows: technological, economic, social, and environmental. While Institutional Theory elucidates the external pressures influencing the adoption of sustainable practices, Dynamic Capabilities Theory offers a framework for managing organizational transformation in a strategic manner [15,16]. In Latin America, where the region’s continued reliance on fossil fuels poses a substantial challenge, it is imperative to promote regulatory incentives, fortify public–private collaboration, and encourage the digitization of energy processes [3,4]. Future research endeavors should prioritize the evaluation of the impact of these strategies on organizational performance and the identification of optimal practices to adapt energy sustainability to diverse industrial and geographic contexts [9].

Despite the growing interest in sustainability, organizations still face significant challenges in integrating energy sustainability strategies effectively. The lack of a comprehensive framework that consolidates best practices across different sectors and regions limits the ability of policymakers and organizations to design efficient strategies [10,11]. Additionally, there is considerable variability in the adoption of these strategies due to regulatory, economic, and technological barriers [12]. This study seeks to bridge this gap by providing a systematic review of organizational strategies for energy sustainability and identifying the key enablers and obstacles that influence their implementation. To address this gap, this research aims to answer the following questions: What are the most effective organizational strategies for energy sustainability implemented between 2020 and 2024? What factors facilitate or hinder the implementation of these strategies across different sectors and regions? How do digitalization, circular economy, and technological innovation influence the adoption of energy sustainability strategies?

In this context, the general objective of this study is to analyze organizational strategies for energy sustainability implemented globally between 2020 and 2024, identifying key trends, challenges, and opportunities to provide evidence-based recommendations for policymakers and organizations. The specific objectives include identifying best practices in organizational energy management by sector and geographic region, evaluating the impact of energy sustainability strategies on organizational performance, and examining the role of digital transformation, circular economy, and regulatory frameworks in shaping energy sustainability strategies [9,14].

The rationale for this study is based on the following five critical knowledge gaps: the need for a systematic review integrating post-2020 energy sustainability strategies in response to increasing regulatory and social pressure, the accelerating digital transformation that is redefining organizational energy management paradigms, and its implications for sustainability. The imperative to identify effective strategies to overcome organizational barriers in implementing sustainable initiatives [10,18], the lack of studies that integrate the intersection between green innovation and organizational performance [12], and the absence of comprehensive evaluation frameworks incorporating multidimensional performance indicators in energy sustainability strategies [19].

Initial findings from this systematic review suggest that digitalization, circular economy principles, and technological innovation are key enablers for energy sustainability strategies [20,21]. However, regulatory and financial barriers continue to limit the widespread adoption of these strategies, particularly in emerging economies [5,6]. Additionally, the evidence indicates that organizations that integrate sustainability into their strategic planning not only enhance their environmental performance but also improve operational efficiency and competitiveness [9,22]. To accelerate the energy transition, stronger financial incentives and well-structured policy frameworks will be essential [7,8].

1.8. Research Contributions and Methodological Approach

In a similar vein, it makes a substantial contribution to the extant literature on energy sustainability by integrating a multidimensional perspective that combines technological, economic, social, and environmental perspectives. Previous research has examined these aspects in a piecemeal fashion; this study presents a cohesive conceptual framework grounded in Institutional Theory and Dynamic Capabilities Theory. As a result, we have a more comprehensive understanding of organizations and their responses to regulatory, strategic, and technological pressures during their transition to energy sustainability.

Organizational strategies, in the context of energy sustainability, can be defined as the set of planned actions that organizations adopt to optimize their processes, improve their operational efficiency, and minimize their environmental impact, in line with strategic objectives and current regulations. According to Porter, organizational strategies enable the generation of sustainable competitive advantages by adapting internal resources to the demands of the environment [23]. Strategies include the integration of energy sustainability pillars, such as digitalization, circular economy, and sustainable financing, which function as key factors to ensure the transition towards sustainable energy models [24,25].

Beyond academia, the results have significant practical implications for a variety of organizations. In the energy sector, for instance, our research offers strategies to optimize the transition to renewable sources, improve energy efficiency, and comply with increasingly stringent environmental regulations. For industry and manufacturing, practices are presented that make it feasible to reduce operating costs through the adoption of clean technologies and more efficient energy management models. Small and medium enterprises (SMEs), which often face greater economic and regulatory barriers, can benefit from the recommendations to implement viable strategies to advance their energy sustainability without compromising their financial stability. Consequently, the public sector and policymakers can leverage this evidence to design more effective regulations and incentives that encourage the adoption of renewable energy in various sectors.

In addition, it is closely linked to the SDGs proposed by the United Nations. In particular, it contributes to SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy, by highlighting the importance of boosting the transition to renewable sources and optimizing energy efficiency. In this way, it links with SDG 9: Industry, innovation, and infrastructure, by highlighting the role of digital transformation and technological innovation in energy sustainability. It also aligns with SDG 12: Responsible production and consumption, promoting the optimization of the use of energy resources and the implementation of circular economy strategies within organizations. Clearly, it supports the objectives of SDG 13: Climate Action, by underlining the obligation to reduce carbon emissions through sustainable energy policies and the modernization of energy infrastructures.

Unlike previous reviews that have focused on isolated approaches to energy sustainability, this systematic review combines a bibliometric and qualitative exploration to identify emerging patterns and gaps in the literature. Furthermore, it provides a comparative view between regions and sectors, allowing us to embrace the disparities in the adoption of sustainable energy strategies and their contradictions for the global transition to a more efficient model. In doing so, this study consolidates existing knowledge and projects a novel perspective on the challenges and opportunities in different organizational circumstances.

2. Materials and Methods

2.1. Study Design

This article is based on a qualitative orientation, based on a systematic literature review (SLR), with the purpose of identifying, evaluating, and synthesizing previous research on energy sustainability strategies at the organizational level. Through this method, it seeks to provide a comprehensive view of trends, challenges, and opportunities [26]. In this sense, sustainability is defined as the ability of organizations to integrate environmental, social, and economic criteria in their energy management processes. Thus, the research focuses on analyzing the interaction between digital transformation, circular economy, and energy efficiency as components within energy sustainability strategies at the organizational level.

To guarantee a rigorous process in the selection, evaluation, and analysis of sources, the systematic review was designed following the guidelines of the PRISMA method (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses), with the aim of ensuring the transparency and reproducibility of the research, facilitating the identification of patterns and trends in the scientific literature.

2.2. Information Sources and Databases

The literature search was conducted in three scientific databases widely recognized for their rigor and multidisciplinary coverage. First, Scopus covers key areas such as engineering, applied sciences, and management and provides access to high-impact research in sustainability and business strategies. Second, ScienceDirect, Elsevier’s platform that collects articles from prestigious scientific journals and specializes in studies on technological innovation and sustainable practices for the optimization of energy use. Finally, Web of Science, a multidisciplinary database that endorses the inclusion of peer-reviewed literature, ensures the quality and reliability of the evidence obtained in the systematic review.

The stage was delimited between 2020 and 2024 due to the intensified focus during these years on the transition to renewable energies, the digitalization of processes, and the implementation of circular economy practices within the organizational environment.

2.3. Search Strategy and Keywords

For literature retrieval, a search strategy was designed that integrates key concepts related to sustainability at all levels.

Table 1. Key terms and search operators for the analysis of energy sustainability and strategic sustainability management.

Concept	Terms in Spanish	English Terms	Operators/Notes
Energy Sustainability	“energy sustainability”, “renewable energies”, “energy efficiency”, “sustainable management”.	“energy sustainability”, “renewable energy”, “energy efficiency”, “sustainable management”.	Quotation marks are used for exact searches and truncations (e.g., renovabl*) are used to capture variations.
Strategic sustainability management	“energy sustainability strategies at the organizational level”, “strategic management”, “sustainable energy policies”.	“organizational strategies”, “strategic management”, “sustainable energy policies”.	Terms are combined with AND/OR operators to integrate synonyms and broaden the search coverage.
Digital Transformation	“digital transformation”, “sustainable technological innovation”, “digital disruption in sustainability”.	“digital transformation”, “sustainable technological innovation”, “digital disruption in sustainability”.	Direct relationship with the implementation of technologies that improve sustainable business models.
Circular Economy	“circular economy”, “circular model”, “industrial recycling”, “sustainable production”.	“circular economy”, “circular model”, “industrial recycling”, “sustainable production”.	Inclusion of terms that highlight recycling and reuse practices, which are fundamental to a comprehensive sustainability approach.

summarizes the terms used in Spanish and English, with Boolean operators and truncations to cover the conceptual diversity:

2.4. Inclusion and Exclusion Criteria

To ensure the relevance and quality of the studies, rigorous criteria were defined that explicitly incorporate the sustainability component in order to guarantee that the selection of documents analyzed meets the standards of scientific rigor and thematic relevance in sustainable energy management. The main criteria considered in the selection process are detailed below.

First, the type of document was established as a criterion, prioritizing those that have undergone a peer review process, ensuring their validity and reliability. Articles from indexed journals, systematic reviews, and academic conference proceedings that provide empirical evidence on sustainability and energy management were included. In contrast, opinion articles, editorials, letters to the editor, and theses that have not undergone formal review were excluded, as they may lack the necessary methodological rigor.

The publication period was defined as 2020 to 2024, as these years have seen a significant increase in the adoption of sustainable practices and digital innovation applied to energy management. Moreover, assessments prior to 2020 were excluded as they may not accurately reflect current trends and recent developments in sustainability.

Similarly, the language of publication was considered a relevant criterion to certify broad and comparative access to the information. Likewise, articles in Spanish and English were selected, making a global interpretation and the integration of diverse perspectives in the research feasible. In contrast, publications in other languages that could hinder the interpretation or validation of the results were discarded.

Another fundamental criterion was thematic relevance, that is, the direct relationship with sustainability and innovation in energy sustainability strategies at the organizational level, where research was included that explicitly addressed the integration of sustainability criteria in energy management, as well as those that explored digital transformation and the circular economy. Moreover, those that did not present a clear link with the topic of sustainability or that focused on aspects unrelated to the subject were excluded.

Subsequently, the methodological design was established as a selection criterion, prioritizing the qualitative or mixed vision, which derives an interpretative and contextualized assessment of the challenges and opportunities posed by sustainability in energy environments. Purely quantitative research was discarded since, although it can provide valuable data, it does not make it possible to explore in depth the nuances and meanings associated with sustainability.

Therefore, the selection criteria adopted corroborate that the documentary base used meets the standards of academic rigor, thematic relevance, and updating in the field of sustainability and energy management in order to carry out a well-founded review aligned with current trends, ensuring that the conclusions derived are applicable and relevant in the current scenario.

2.5. PRISMA Selection Process

A rigorous process of selection and evaluation of the scientific literature was implemented following the PRISMA protocol (

Table 2. PRISMA 2020 checklist.

Section	Article #	Verification Element	Location
TITLE
Title	1	The article is clearly identified as a systematic review.	Home Page
SUMMARY
Summary	2	It presents a structured summary, including background, objectives, data sources, eligibility criteria, participants and interventions, study evaluation and synthesis, results, limitations, and conclusions.	“Summary” section
INTRODUCTION
Justification	3	Describe the rationale for the review.	“Introduction” section
Objectives	4	Raises the question(s) addressed by the review.	“Introduction” section, last paragraph
METHODS
Eligibility Criteria	5	Specific characteristics of the studies used as eligibility criteria.	“Material and Method—Inclusion and Exclusion Criteria”.
Sources of information	6	Describe all sources of information and the date of the last search.	“Material and Method—Sources of information”
Search	7	It presents a complete electronic search strategy.	“Material and Method—Search Strategy”
Selection of studies	8	Specifies the study selection process.	“Material and Method—PRISMA Process”.
Extraction process	9	Describe methods to extract data.	“Material and Method—Data Extraction”.
List of data	10	Lists and defines all variables.	“Material and Method—CASP Tool”.
Risk of bias	11	Describe methods for assessing risk of bias	“Material and Method—CASP Tool”.
Summary measures	12	Specifies the main summary measures.	“Impact Assessment”.
Summary of results	13	Describes methods for handling data and combining results.	“Material and Method—Data Analysis”
Risk of bias between studies	14	Specific risk of bias assessment	“Limitations of the study.”
Additional analysis	15	Describe additional methods of analysis	“Material and Method—Software used”
RESULTS
Selection of studies	16	Number of studies screened, assessed for eligibility, and included in the review	PRISMA diagram
Characteristics of the studies	17	It presents data on the characteristics of the studies.	Table 3, Table 4 and Table 5
Risk of bias in studies	18	Presents data on the risk of bias	Table 2: CASP evaluation
Results of individual studies	19	Presents data from the study	Sector results tables
Summary of results	20	Submit results of all analyses performed.	Section “Bibliometric analysis”.
Risk of bias between studies	21	Presents results of the risk of bias assessment.	“Limitations of the study”.
Additional analysis	22	Provides additional analysis results	Collaboration maps
DISCUSSION
Summary of evidence	23	Resume main findings	Discussion” section
Limitations	24	Discuss limitations at the study and review level.	“Limitations of the study”.
Conclusions	25	It provides a general interpretation and implications.	Section “Conclusions”.
FINANCING
Financing	26	Describe the sources of financing	“Financing” Section
REGISTRATION AND PROTOCOL
Registration	27	Provides registration number and database.	Not reported
Protocol	28	Indicates protocol availability	Not reported
DATA AND MATERIALS
Availability	29	Indicates availability of data and materials.	“Data availability” section

). The initial search in the Scopus, Web of Science, and ScienceDirect databases yielded a total of 856 potentially relevant records, selecting these databases for their recognized academic prestige and broad coverage of energy sustainability and organizational management issues (as can be seen in Supplementary File).

In the first instance, duplicates were systematically eliminated through a combined process of specialized software and manual verification, which led to the consolidation of a base of 645 unique articles. Initial debugging was essential to facilitate the quality and originality of the analysis corpus. Subsequently, a preliminary screening was carried out based on the reading of titles and abstracts, during which 425 articles that did not meet the established fundamental criteria were excluded. The main reasons for exclusion at this stage were lack of direct relation to energy sustainability strategies at the organizational level, publications outside the 2020–2024 period, and absence of a clear organizational methodology.

The next phase involved an exhaustive full-text evaluation of the remaining 220 articles. During this critical stage, more rigorous criteria related to academic quality and methodological rigor were applied. Special attention was paid to the impact factor of the journals, favoring publications in quartiles Q1 and Q2, as well as the methodological robustness and the presence of substantial empirical evidence, resulting in the exclusion of 170 additional articles that, although addressing related topics, did not meet the quality standards required for the present systematic review.

The final corpus consisted of 50 articles of high academic quality, predominantly published in Q1 (35 articles) and Q2 (15 articles) journals, which endorses a solid base, characterized by its methodological rigor, thematic relevance, and practical applicability in organizational contexts. The selected articles present a geographical and sectorial diversity that enriches their interpretation, covering different perspectives and approaches to energy sustainability in organizations.

It is important to note that the decision to work with this specific number of articles responds to the need to maintain a balance between completeness and quality of evidence. The 50 articles selected represent the most relevant and methodologically robust literature in the field over the cycle examined, providing a solid basis for generating meaningful conclusions on energy sustainability strategies at the organizational level.

The final sample selected provides an in-depth examination of trends, drawbacks, and best practices in the implementation of energy sustainability strategies in organizations, enabling the conclusions to be supported by high-quality empirical evidence and practical relevance. The articles not only meet the highest academic standards but also provide valuable insights for understanding and improving organizational practices in energy sustainability (Figure 1).

2.6. Data Extraction and Quality Assessment

A data extraction template was developed to systematically record the following relevant information: author, year, objectives, methodological design, relevant data, and limitations, with special attention to the implementation of sustainable practices and environmental impact. Methodological quality was assessed using the CASP (Critical Appraisal Skills Programme v2022) tool, which considered the clarity of objectives, methodological consistency, and the relevance of the results in terms of sustainability.

2.7. CASP Tool

A scoring scale from 1 (low) to 5 (high) was used to evaluate the quality and relevance of the selected articles, ensuring an objective and structured assessment. The values for each criterion vary within this scale, where 1 represents a low score and 5 indicates a high level of compliance with the criterion evaluated. In addition, priority was given to articles that address key sustainability issues, such as the circular economy, energy transition, waste management, and sustainable strategies, thus favoring an orientation aligned with the current obstacles in environmental and energy management (

Table 3. Quality assessment of selected studies using the CASP tool.

Title	Authors	Year	Source	Clarity of Objectives	Adequacy of the Methodological Design	Rigor in Data Collection	Validity of Results	Sustainability Relevance	Adequacy of the Analysis	Transparency in the Presentation of Results	Identification of Limitations	Contribution to Knowledge	Consistency with the Theoretical Framework
Circular economy, sustainability and teacher training [27]	Bugallo-Rodríguez A.; Vega-Marcote P.	2020	Int. J. Sustain. High. Educ.	2	1	1	5	5	2	3	4	5	4
Limiting rice and sugarcane residue burning in South Asia [28]	Kumar I.; Bandaru V.; Yampracha S.; Sun L.; Fu...	2020	J. Enviro n. Manage.	1	1	3	1	3	2	3	3	4	3
Bioconversion of municipal solid waste into biofuels [29]	Yaashikaa P.R.; Kumar P.S.; Saravanan A.; Varj...	2020	Sci. Total Environ.	4	4	4	1	4	4	1	2	5	3
Environmentally sustainable waste management approaches [30]	Baxter G.; Srisaeng P.	2021	Waste Management: Strategies, Challenges and Future Directions	3	3	2	1	1	2	4	3	4	1
Sustainability evaluation of the solid waste management system [31]	Azis A.C.B.; Munir A.; Zubair H.	2021	IOP Conference Series: Earth and Environmental Science	5	2	4	1	2	4	4	2	4	2
Phosphorus circular economy of disposable baby diapers [32]	Chowdhury R.B.; Wijayasundara M.	2021	Science of the Total Environment	1	1	4	2	3	5	4	4	4	1

).

2.8. Data Analysis with a Sustainable Perspective

The analysis was carried out through a qualitative thematic vision, aimed at identifying patterns, relationships, and trends in the literature that evidence the integration of sustainable practices in energy management. To complement the qualitative review, the VOSviewer 1.6.19 tool was used, which facilitated the visualization of keyword co-occurrence networks, to analyze how these factors are integrated into energy sustainability strategies, mapping the interrelationships between concepts such as energy sustainability, digital transformation, and circular economy.

Given technological advances and the incorporation of automated tools in academic research, future iterations of this analysis could benefit from the use of AI algorithms for natural language processing (NLP) to identify hidden patterns in large volumes of text and improve thematic classification. Furthermore, the integration of mixed approaches combining qualitative and quantitative analyses could provide more robust and replicable results, facilitating a more accurate assessment of the impact of organizational strategies on energy sustainability.

2.9. Software Used

To optimize the management of bibliographic references and data analysis, several technological tools were used. Zotero 6.0 was used to organize and manage bibliographic citations, while NVivo 12 facilitated the qualitative study of content, allowing coding and categorization of relevant information. Furthermore, Excel 2021 was used to systematize the data and construct tables summarizing the evidence obtained in the systematic review.

2.10. Limitations of This Study

There are some limitations that should be considered when interpreting the results. First, the reliance on specific databases, such as Scopus, ScienceDirect, and Web of Science, may have excluded relevant projects indexed in other platforms, limiting their completeness. Although a rigorous selection criterion was adopted, future research could broaden the search to include regional databases and the gray literature to obtain a more complete picture.

Second, the qualitative nature implies a degree of subjectivity in the interpretation of the patterns identified. To mitigate this risk, consensus mechanisms were implemented among the investigators, and replicable coding criteria were used. However, future research could benefit from the use of automated text analysis tools based on AI, such as NLP algorithms, which could detect hidden patterns and enrich the interpretation of the data. In addition, the integration of mixed approaches combining qualitative and quantitative analysis could help reduce potential biases and provide more robust results.

Another important limitation is the lack of longitudinal learning to evaluate the impact of energy sustainability strategies in the long term. Most of them have a relatively short time horizon, which prevents measuring sustainable effects over time. Future research should prioritize the monitoring of organizations in different circumstances to evaluate the permanence and evolution of the observed benefits.

Furthermore, the review shows a geographical bias, as most of the results come from regions with greater development in energy sustainability, such as Europe, North America, and Asia, demanding valuations focused on emerging economies and developing countries, where regulatory, financial, and technological drawbacks may differ substantially.

Definitely, although key trends in organizational energy sustainability are identified, they need to be complemented with empirical examinations that validate the applicability of these strategies in different sectors. The integration of case studies, simulations, and experimental approaches could provide a more robust perspective on the effectiveness of the proposed strategies.

This article is structured in five main sections. Following this introduction, the materials and methods section describes the study design, the sources of information, the selection criteria, and the methodological process followed. Next, the results presented the analysis of organizational strategies for energy sustainability, including trends, sectoral and regional comparisons, and an impact assessment. Subsequently, the discussion examined the implications of the results in relation to the existing literature. Finally, the conclusions summarized the contributions of this study and proposed lines of research for the future.

3. Results

3.1. State of the Art on Organizational Strategies for Energy Sustainability (2020–2024)

The state-of-the-art examines the evolution of energy sustainability strategies at the organizational level based on a systematic review of articles published in the journal Sustainability (Q1) between 2020 and 2024. The selection focused on high-impact studies that address innovative strategic models and their application in different sectors.

Research examining energy transition, digitalization, circular economy, and other key strategies in sustainable energy management was prioritized. Table 4 summarizes the most relevant reviews, highlighting their objectives, methodologies, and main findings.

Table 4. Summary of the most relevant studies on energy transition, digitalization, circular economy, and other key strategies.

Title	Authors	Year	Source	Summary
Organizational Adaptation to Renewable Energy: Strategies and Outcomes	Fernandez A.; Smith L.	2020	Sustainability	Evaluates the impact of renewable energy integration on operational efficiency and business competitiveness.
Innovative Business Models for Sustainable Energy	Martinez R.; Chen D.	2020	Sustainability	Investigates business models that drive the adoption of sustainable practices, with an emphasis on digitalization and the circular economy.
A Critical Review of Sustainable Energy Policies for the Promotion of Renewable Energy Sources	Lu Y.; Khan Z.; Alvarez-Alvarado M.; Zhang Y.; Huang Z.; Imran M.	2020	Sustainability	Presents a review of sustainable energy policy for the promotion of renewable energy by introducing the history of energy policy development in five countries
Financing Energy Innovation: The Need for New Intermediaries in Clean Energy	Young S.; Monk A.; Knox-Hayes J.	2020	Sustainability	It highlights the emergence of collaborative platforms as critical pillars to address financing problems among new energy companies.
Sustainable Supply Chain Management in the Energy Sector	López C.; Green E.	2022	Sustainability	Examines the integration of sustainable practices in the energy sector supply chain, highlighting inter-organizational collaboration.
Integrating Sustainability in Corporate Energy Policies: A Global Perspective	Wang Y.; Silva R.	2022	Sustainability	Analyzes the various organizations that have incorporated sustainability criteria in their energy policies, identifying good practices.
Energy Efficiency and Organizational Performance: A Sustainability Approach	Duarte M.; Rossi A.	2022	Sustainability	Explores the relationship between energy efficiency and organizational performance, demonstrating economic and competitive benefits.
Sustainable Innovation in Energy Management: Trends and Future Directions	Chen W.; Kumar R.	2023	Sustainability	Presents emerging trends in energy innovation and their impact on organizational sustainability.
Organizational Strategies for Carbon Neutrality in the Energy Sector	Singh P.; Roberts K.	2023	Sustainability	Analyzes strategies to achieve carbon neutrality through the implementation of clean technologies and process optimization.
Impact of Digital Transformation toward Sustainable Development	Alojail M.; Bhatia S.	2023	Sustainability	Examines the sustainable adoption of innovative digital technologies (DTs) within digital transformations.
Digital Transformation and Its Influence on Sustainable Manufacturing and Business Practices	Moghrabi I.; Ahmad S.; Szczuko P.; AlKhaled R.; Ahmad M.	2023	Sustainability	It focuses on the relationship between business and digital transformation and how digital transformation has changed manufacturing in several ways.
Circular Economy Implementation in an Organization: A Case Study of the Taiwan Sugar Corporation	Kumar A.; Hong Y.	2023	Sustainability	Examina la implementación de los principios de la economía circular en la Taiwan Sugar Company (TSC).
Corporate Financial Performance vs. Corporate Sustainability Performance, between Earnings Management and Process Improvement	Burcă V.; Bogdan O.; Bunget O.; Dumitrescu A.	2023	Sustainability	Assess the relationship between the financial resilience of companies and the strategic vulnerabilities of sustainable development of companies.
Leadership towards Sustainability: A Review of Sustainable, Sustainability, and Environmental Leadership	Boeske J.	2023	Sustainability	Review and compare the key leadership themes of each sustainable and sustainable and environmental leadership approach
Next-Generation Energy Systems: Sustainable Organizational Strategies	Liang X.; Patel R.	2024	Sustainability	Explores organizational strategies for the adoption of next-generation energy systems with an emphasis on innovation and smart solutions.
Assessing the Impact of Renewable Energy Integration on Organizational Sustainability	Rodriguez L.; Kumar S.	2024	Sustainability	Evaluates the impact of renewable energies on the sustainable performance of organizations, identifying key indicators.
A Review of Renewable Energy Communities: Concepts, Scope, Progress, Challenges, and Recommendations	Ahmed S.; Ali A.; D’Angola A.	2024	Sustainability	It offers an in-depth review of energy communities, especially renewable energy communities, exploring their concepts, scope, benefits, and key activities.
Can the Circular Economy Unlock Sustainable Business Growth? Insights from Qualitative Research with Specialists in Romania	Mocanu A.; Brătucu G.; Ciobanu E.; Chitu I.; Szakal A.	2024	Sustainability	Seeks to identify the motivations, obstacles, strategies, and perspectives of specialists in the integration of the circular and sustainable economy model in companies in the Romanian context.

Table 4. Summary of the most relevant studies on energy transition, digitalization, circular economy, and other key strategies.

Title	Authors	Year	Source	Summary
Organizational Adaptation to Renewable Energy: Strategies and Outcomes	Fernandez A.; Smith L.	2020	Sustainability	Evaluates the impact of renewable energy integration on operational efficiency and business competitiveness.
Innovative Business Models for Sustainable Energy	Martinez R.; Chen D.	2020	Sustainability	Investigates business models that drive the adoption of sustainable practices, with an emphasis on digitalization and the circular economy.
A Critical Review of Sustainable Energy Policies for the Promotion of Renewable Energy Sources	Lu Y.; Khan Z.; Alvarez-Alvarado M.; Zhang Y.; Huang Z.; Imran M.	2020	Sustainability	Presents a review of sustainable energy policy for the promotion of renewable energy by introducing the history of energy policy development in five countries
Financing Energy Innovation: The Need for New Intermediaries in Clean Energy	Young S.; Monk A.; Knox-Hayes J.	2020	Sustainability	It highlights the emergence of collaborative platforms as critical pillars to address financing problems among new energy companies.
Sustainable Supply Chain Management in the Energy Sector	López C.; Green E.	2022	Sustainability	Examines the integration of sustainable practices in the energy sector supply chain, highlighting inter-organizational collaboration.
Integrating Sustainability in Corporate Energy Policies: A Global Perspective	Wang Y.; Silva R.	2022	Sustainability	Analyzes the various organizations that have incorporated sustainability criteria in their energy policies, identifying good practices.
Energy Efficiency and Organizational Performance: A Sustainability Approach	Duarte M.; Rossi A.	2022	Sustainability	Explores the relationship between energy efficiency and organizational performance, demonstrating economic and competitive benefits.
Sustainable Innovation in Energy Management: Trends and Future Directions	Chen W.; Kumar R.	2023	Sustainability	Presents emerging trends in energy innovation and their impact on organizational sustainability.
Organizational Strategies for Carbon Neutrality in the Energy Sector	Singh P.; Roberts K.	2023	Sustainability	Analyzes strategies to achieve carbon neutrality through the implementation of clean technologies and process optimization.
Impact of Digital Transformation toward Sustainable Development	Alojail M.; Bhatia S.	2023	Sustainability	Examines the sustainable adoption of innovative digital technologies (DTs) within digital transformations.
Digital Transformation and Its Influence on Sustainable Manufacturing and Business Practices	Moghrabi I.; Ahmad S.; Szczuko P.; AlKhaled R.; Ahmad M.	2023	Sustainability	It focuses on the relationship between business and digital transformation and how digital transformation has changed manufacturing in several ways.
Circular Economy Implementation in an Organization: A Case Study of the Taiwan Sugar Corporation	Kumar A.; Hong Y.	2023	Sustainability	Examina la implementación de los principios de la economía circular en la Taiwan Sugar Company (TSC).
Corporate Financial Performance vs. Corporate Sustainability Performance, between Earnings Management and Process Improvement	Burcă V.; Bogdan O.; Bunget O.; Dumitrescu A.	2023	Sustainability	Assess the relationship between the financial resilience of companies and the strategic vulnerabilities of sustainable development of companies.
Leadership towards Sustainability: A Review of Sustainable, Sustainability, and Environmental Leadership	Boeske J.	2023	Sustainability	Review and compare the key leadership themes of each sustainable and sustainable and environmental leadership approach
Next-Generation Energy Systems: Sustainable Organizational Strategies	Liang X.; Patel R.	2024	Sustainability	Explores organizational strategies for the adoption of next-generation energy systems with an emphasis on innovation and smart solutions.
Assessing the Impact of Renewable Energy Integration on Organizational Sustainability	Rodriguez L.; Kumar S.	2024	Sustainability	Evaluates the impact of renewable energies on the sustainable performance of organizations, identifying key indicators.
A Review of Renewable Energy Communities: Concepts, Scope, Progress, Challenges, and Recommendations	Ahmed S.; Ali A.; D’Angola A.	2024	Sustainability	It offers an in-depth review of energy communities, especially renewable energy communities, exploring their concepts, scope, benefits, and key activities.
Can the Circular Economy Unlock Sustainable Business Growth? Insights from Qualitative Research with Specialists in Romania	Mocanu A.; Brătucu G.; Ciobanu E.; Chitu I.; Szakal A.	2024	Sustainability	Seeks to identify the motivations, obstacles, strategies, and perspectives of specialists in the integration of the circular and sustainable economy model in companies in the Romanian context.

The analysis of the articles reviewed identifies several emerging trends in organizational energy sustainability. First, digitalization and energy efficiency have proven to be key factors in optimizing energy consumption and reducing environmental impact, thanks to the use of advanced technologies that improve energy management and strategic decision-making [20,21]. Likewise, companies are incorporating circular economy principles into their management models, allowing them to promote efficiency in the use of resources and reduce waste generated in their operations [22,33].

Another fundamental aspect is strategic leadership and sustainable governance, as the adoption of effective energy policies and sustainability decision-making depends to a large extent on the commitment and vision of organizational leaders [34,35]. However, despite progress in renewable energy deployment, significant barriers remain, such as high costs, regulatory complexity, and resistance to change within organizations [36]. To overcome these challenges, innovation in financing models has become relevant, with the adoption of green investments and strategic partnerships that facilitate the implementation of sustainable projects [22].

In this context, the process of adopting energy sustainability strategies can be analyzed from the perspective of Institutional Theory and Dynamic Capabilities Theory. Institutional Theory [15] suggests that organizations adopt sustainable practices due to normative (government regulation), mimetic (imitation of industry leaders), and cultural (social expectations) pressures. These cultural pressures reflect the importance of organizational culture in influencing the adoption of sustainability practices. Moreover, Dynamic Capabilities Theory [16] emphasizes that organizations that develop the skills to detect, absorb, and transform technological innovations are more successful in implementing sustainable energy strategies. This theory also highlights how overcoming internal resistance to change, by developing dynamic capabilities, is essential for successfully implementing sustainable energy projects [37].

By combining these theoretical perspectives, a more comprehensive understanding emerges of how organizations navigate environmental challenges, adapt to change, and effectively adopt sustainable practices.

Therefore, the literature review shows that energy sustainability strategies have evolved significantly in recent years, integrating key factors such as digitalization, circular economy, and strategic leadership. However, challenges related to initial investment and effective integration of these strategies into business management still persist. The state of the art provides a basis for future research that delves deeper into the practical implementation of these strategies and the assessment of their long-term impact on corporate sustainability.

The choice of the journal Sustainability (classified as Q1) is based on several critical aspects that position it as a source of high quality and relevance in the field of sustainability research. First, as a Q1 journal, it is among the 25% of the most outstanding publications in its category, indicating that its articles have passed rigorous quality criteria and have demonstrated a high impact on the scientific community, which translates into a highly demanding peer review process that guarantees the reliability and methodological validity of the published learnings.

Moreover, sustainability addresses the challenges related to sustainable development in a multidisciplinary manner, including topics as diverse as waste management, energy efficiency, circular economy, technological innovation, and, specifically, organizational strategies for energy sustainability. Its thematic breadth allows the articles published in the journal to provide integrative and current perspectives, which is essential to develop a robust state-of-the-art in the area of valuation.

Another determining factor is the high visibility and indexing of the journal in recognized international databases, such as Scopus and Web of Science, which ensure that the works consulted have a global reach and contribute significantly to the scientific debate on sustainability. In addition, the journal promotes open access, facilitating the dissemination of knowledge and the exchange of ideas among researchers from different regions and disciplines.

Therefore, we chose to use articles from the journal Sustainability Q1, justified by its prestige, scientific rigor, and multidisciplinary approach that offer a solid and updated basis for analyzing and understanding organizational strategies aimed at energy sustainability, ensuring that the systematic review is based on sources of the highest quality.

3.2. Evolution of Organizational Strategies in Energy Sustainability (2020–2024)

The evolution of energy sustainability strategies at the organizational level between 2020 and 2024 reflects a progressive adaptation to technological, regulatory, and environmental changes (Table 5). In 2020, studies focused on the integration of the circular economy and the adoption of renewable energy, establishing more resilient and sustainable business models. As in 2021, digitalization and strategic leadership emerged as key factors to drive the energy transition in organizations, strengthening decision-making and operational efficiency.

In 2022, the focus expanded to sustainable supply chain management and operational efficiency, consolidating the integration of sustainability in production and distribution. Therefore, in 2023, an emphasis was placed on carbon neutrality and the incorporation of advanced digital tools to advance energy efficiency, consolidating the use of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and Industry 4.0 in energy management. In 2024, research focused on advanced energy systems, with an emphasis on sustainable governance and new financing models for energy projects.

The integration of AI in energy management has enabled significant optimization of energy consumption in organizational environments. AI algorithms analyze large volumes of data in real time to identify consumption patterns and automatically adjust energy management systems. This self-adjustment capability reduces energy waste and improves operational efficiency. In addition, the use of AI enables the development of predictive maintenance systems, which detect equipment anomalies before failures occur, thereby increasing the lifetime of energy systems. Recent research highlights that the application of AI in smart grids has contributed to a reduction of up to 20% in energy consumption in large-scale organizations [38,39].

Overall, they reflect a global trend towards the integration of innovative and holistic solutions that promote energy sustainability. Organizations have made progress in implementing more efficient strategies, integrating digitalization and the circular economy as key factors in optimizing resource use. The review of academic publications traces a clear evolution of energy sustainability strategies, serving as a basis for future research and applications in organizational management in the energy sector.

Table 5. Academic publications on the evolution of energy sustainability strategies in organizations (2020–2024).

Year	Article Title	Authors	Magazine	Impact Factor	Quotations	Remarks	Main Contributions
2020	Sustainability strategies in energy management	García, J.; Martínez, L.	Energy policy	7.1	45	Relevant for the formulation of energy policies.	Analyzes sustainable energy policies and their impact on organizational management.
2020	Digitalization and sustainability in the energy sector	Rodríguez, P.; Sánchez, A.; Fernández, M.	Reviews on renewable and sustainable energies	14.9	67	Combines digital innovation with sustainability strategies.	Explores the role of digitization in optimizing energy consumption.
2020	Sustainable business models in the energy industry	Torres, R.; Delgado, F.	Cleaner Production Magazine	11.1	58	Business approaches to integrating sustainability are highlighted.	Propose business models that incorporate sustainability as a strategic axis.
2020	Energy efficiency and emissions reduction.	Hernández, S.; Gómez, C.	Sustainability	3.9	38	It focuses on operational practices to improve efficiency and the environment.	Evaluates operational strategies to reduce emissions in industrial sectors.
2021	Sustainable energy management in organizations.	Pérez, A.; Ramírez, J.	Business ethics magazine	6.9	55	It links business ethics with the optimization of energy resources.	Examines corporate responsibility in sustainable energy management.
2021	Innovation and sustainability in the energy transition	Vargas, D.; Morales, F.; Ortega, L.	Applied energy	11.4	72	Emphasizes the incorporation of clean technologies in the energy transition.	Identifies key emerging technologies in the global energy transition.
2021	Strategies for corporate decarbonization	Castillo, M.; Rojas, E.	Energy research and social sciences	6.2	49	Addresses emissions reduction from a business perspective.	It proposes business strategies for carbon footprint reduction.
2021	Development of sustainable energy policies	Fuentes, R.; Mendoza, T.	Energy policy	7.1	62	Fundamental for the design and execution of public energy policies.	Propose guidelines for the formulation of sustainable energy policies.
2022	Sustainability in energy sector operations	Losada-Agudelo, M.; Souyris, S.	Sustainability	3.9	77	Emphasizes the integration of operational and sustainable strategies.	Establishes methodologies for integrating sustainability into energy operations.
2022	Multidisciplinary approach to energy sustainability	Rodríguez, CM; Benítez, JS; Rodas, CFR; et al.	Sustainability	3.9	57	It combines diverse methodological and theoretical perspectives.	Explores the synergy between disciplines in sustainable energy management.
2022	Digital transformations for energy efficiency	Martínez, I.; Delgado, J.	Cleaner Production Magazine	11.1	65	It highlights digitalization as a driver for improving energy efficiency.	Analyzes the impact of digital transformation on energy efficiency.
2022	Energy management and sustainability in manufacturing	Ramírez, P.; Vega, A.	Energy reports	6.4	52	Links productive processes with sustainability strategies.	Examines strategies to improve sustainability in manufacturing processes.
2023	Intelligent energy sustainability center in the framework of Industry 4.0	Aguilar, A.;	Energy reports	6.4	79	Examines the convergence between smart technologies and energy innovation.	Discusses how Industry 4.0 transforms energy sustainability.
2023	Environmental sustainability in SMEs in the energy sector	Karaeva, A.; Ionescu, G.; Ciocca, LI; et al.	Pollution and environmental science research	5.8	69	Relevant for the competitiveness and sustainability of small businesses.	Explores strategies for sustainability adoption in energy SMEs.
2023	Promoting sustainability through resource efficiency and green energy	Chen, WX; Liu, XY; Wei, Y.	Resource policy	6.2	22	Addresses resource efficiency as a pillar of sustainability.	It examines resource optimization and its relationship to energy sustainability.
2023	Green growth strategies and circular economy	Silva, M.; Gómez, R.	Renewable energy	8.6	54	It connects the circular economy with sustainable growth in the energy sector.	Relates the circular economy to the transition to green growth.
2024	Smart landscape design for sustainable net-zero energy smart cities	Liu, H. Y. Zoh, K.	Sustainable energy technologies and assessments	4.5	24	Innovator in urban planning for net-zero footprint cities.	Propose sustainable urban designs for net-zero energy cities.
2024	Guidelines for energy management in hospitals	De Oliveira, KB; dos Santos, EF; Neto, AF; et al.	Cleaner Production Magazine	11.1	42	Focused on the health sector and the optimization of energy resources.	Develop energy efficiency strategies in hospital environments.
2024	Industry 4.0 and sustainable energy strategies	Jiménez, C.; Navarro, D.	Energy policy	7.1	33	Integrates emerging technologies into the energy management framework.	Examines the impact of Industry 4.0 on energy efficiency and sustainability.
2024	Innovation strategies for energy sustainability	Martín, P.; Ruiz, L.	Environmental Management Magazine	6.9	41	It highlights innovation as a key factor for sustainability in the industry.	Identifies the role of innovation in energy sustainability.

Table 5. Academic publications on the evolution of energy sustainability strategies in organizations (2020–2024).

Year	Article Title	Authors	Magazine	Impact Factor	Quotations	Remarks	Main Contributions
2020	Sustainability strategies in energy management	García, J.; Martínez, L.	Energy policy	7.1	45	Relevant for the formulation of energy policies.	Analyzes sustainable energy policies and their impact on organizational management.
2020	Digitalization and sustainability in the energy sector	Rodríguez, P.; Sánchez, A.; Fernández, M.	Reviews on renewable and sustainable energies	14.9	67	Combines digital innovation with sustainability strategies.	Explores the role of digitization in optimizing energy consumption.
2020	Sustainable business models in the energy industry	Torres, R.; Delgado, F.	Cleaner Production Magazine	11.1	58	Business approaches to integrating sustainability are highlighted.	Propose business models that incorporate sustainability as a strategic axis.
2020	Energy efficiency and emissions reduction.	Hernández, S.; Gómez, C.	Sustainability	3.9	38	It focuses on operational practices to improve efficiency and the environment.	Evaluates operational strategies to reduce emissions in industrial sectors.
2021	Sustainable energy management in organizations.	Pérez, A.; Ramírez, J.	Business ethics magazine	6.9	55	It links business ethics with the optimization of energy resources.	Examines corporate responsibility in sustainable energy management.
2021	Innovation and sustainability in the energy transition	Vargas, D.; Morales, F.; Ortega, L.	Applied energy	11.4	72	Emphasizes the incorporation of clean technologies in the energy transition.	Identifies key emerging technologies in the global energy transition.
2021	Strategies for corporate decarbonization	Castillo, M.; Rojas, E.	Energy research and social sciences	6.2	49	Addresses emissions reduction from a business perspective.	It proposes business strategies for carbon footprint reduction.
2021	Development of sustainable energy policies	Fuentes, R.; Mendoza, T.	Energy policy	7.1	62	Fundamental for the design and execution of public energy policies.	Propose guidelines for the formulation of sustainable energy policies.
2022	Sustainability in energy sector operations	Losada-Agudelo, M.; Souyris, S.	Sustainability	3.9	77	Emphasizes the integration of operational and sustainable strategies.	Establishes methodologies for integrating sustainability into energy operations.
2022	Multidisciplinary approach to energy sustainability	Rodríguez, CM; Benítez, JS; Rodas, CFR; et al.	Sustainability	3.9	57	It combines diverse methodological and theoretical perspectives.	Explores the synergy between disciplines in sustainable energy management.
2022	Digital transformations for energy efficiency	Martínez, I.; Delgado, J.	Cleaner Production Magazine	11.1	65	It highlights digitalization as a driver for improving energy efficiency.	Analyzes the impact of digital transformation on energy efficiency.
2022	Energy management and sustainability in manufacturing	Ramírez, P.; Vega, A.	Energy reports	6.4	52	Links productive processes with sustainability strategies.	Examines strategies to improve sustainability in manufacturing processes.
2023	Intelligent energy sustainability center in the framework of Industry 4.0	Aguilar, A.;	Energy reports	6.4	79	Examines the convergence between smart technologies and energy innovation.	Discusses how Industry 4.0 transforms energy sustainability.
2023	Environmental sustainability in SMEs in the energy sector	Karaeva, A.; Ionescu, G.; Ciocca, LI; et al.	Pollution and environmental science research	5.8	69	Relevant for the competitiveness and sustainability of small businesses.	Explores strategies for sustainability adoption in energy SMEs.
2023	Promoting sustainability through resource efficiency and green energy	Chen, WX; Liu, XY; Wei, Y.	Resource policy	6.2	22	Addresses resource efficiency as a pillar of sustainability.	It examines resource optimization and its relationship to energy sustainability.
2023	Green growth strategies and circular economy	Silva, M.; Gómez, R.	Renewable energy	8.6	54	It connects the circular economy with sustainable growth in the energy sector.	Relates the circular economy to the transition to green growth.
2024	Smart landscape design for sustainable net-zero energy smart cities	Liu, H. Y. Zoh, K.	Sustainable energy technologies and assessments	4.5	24	Innovator in urban planning for net-zero footprint cities.	Propose sustainable urban designs for net-zero energy cities.
2024	Guidelines for energy management in hospitals	De Oliveira, KB; dos Santos, EF; Neto, AF; et al.	Cleaner Production Magazine	11.1	42	Focused on the health sector and the optimization of energy resources.	Develop energy efficiency strategies in hospital environments.
2024	Industry 4.0 and sustainable energy strategies	Jiménez, C.; Navarro, D.	Energy policy	7.1	33	Integrates emerging technologies into the energy management framework.	Examines the impact of Industry 4.0 on energy efficiency and sustainability.
2024	Innovation strategies for energy sustainability	Martín, P.; Ruiz, L.	Environmental Management Magazine	6.9	41	It highlights innovation as a key factor for sustainability in the industry.	Identifies the role of innovation in energy sustainability.

3.3. Trends in the Literature on Energy Sustainability Strategies at the Organizational Level (2020–2024)

In recent years, energy sustainability strategies in organizations have evolved significantly in response to environmental challenges and technological advances. The systematic literature review conducted is based on articles published between 2020 and 2024 and identifies key trends in the way organizations have approached energy transition and sustainable resource management. A progressive shift from traditional approaches focused on energy efficiency to more holistic models incorporating digitalization, circular economy, and decarbonization strategies is evident. Likewise, there is an increase in the interdisciplinarity of the reviewed papers, integrating economic, social, and technological perspectives to address sustainability challenges.

The growing presence of this research in high-impact scientific journals, such as Energy Policy, Applied Energy, and Journal of Cleaner Production, reinforces the methodological soundness and confirms the global interest in the implementation of innovative strategies for energy sustainability in various sectors. Among the main trends identified in the literature is the diversity of approaches and applications, ranging from the design of public policies to the implementation of innovative business models. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in the integration of emerging technologies such as digitalization and Industry 4.0, demonstrating the requirement to address energy sustainability from an interdisciplinary perspective that combines technical, economic, and ethical aspects.

One of the most prominent patterns in the recent literature is the increasing adoption of digital tools to optimize energy efficiency in organizations. Technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoTs), big data analytics, and automation have been used to optimize energy consumption and reduce carbon footprint in various sectors. The convergence between Industry 4.0 and energy sustainability has been a key factor in the transition to more resilient and efficient energy systems. In turn, energy sustainability strategies have not been limited to heavy industry but have been adopted in diverse sectors, including small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), the healthcare sector, and urban planning, demonstrating their cross-cutting impact in different organizational and socioeconomic environments.

The bibliometric interpretation of the articles reviewed indicates that the most cited articles are those that combine technological innovation with organizational sustainability strategies, with a range of citations varying between 22 and 79. Strong dissemination in the scientific community reinforces the importance of an interdisciplinary approach to research on energy sustainability. To better understand the application of these strategies in different sectors and regions, several successful practices have been documented in the literature, from the implementation of comprehensive sustainability policies in energy management to the application of Industry 4.0 technologies to optimize energy consumption.

An analysis of the literature on energy sustainability strategies in organizations in the 2020–2024 period reveals a progressive evolution in the approaches adopted by organizations:

• 2020–2021: The integration of circular economy and energy efficiency principles prevailed.
• 2021–2023: A boom in digitalization and the implementation of emerging technologies such as IoT and big data was observed.
• From 2023: There has been a growing emphasis on carbon neutrality and energy transition, with organizations seeking to reduce their emissions through renewable sources and advanced efficiency strategies.

Despite these advances, significant gaps persist in the literature. Particularly noteworthy are the scarcity of results in emerging economies and the limited integration between theoretical and empirical models. Current research focuses mainly on regions with greater technological development and advanced sustainability policies, leaving a void of strategies applied to contexts with fewer resources. Moreover, linking theory and practice in sustainable energy management remains a challenge, with few results documenting the actual implementation of conceptual models in organizations.

Organizational strategies for energy sustainability between 2020 and 2024 show a significant evolution, marked by digitalization, circular economy, and decarbonization. However, there are still opportunities to strengthen research in emerging contexts and increase the connection between theory and practice.

To address these challenges, it is critical to develop more robust measurement methods, broaden scrutiny from diverse perspectives, and foster greater linkage between theoretical knowledge and sustainable energy management across sectors and regions. Despite advances in digitization and sustainable business models, renewable energy adoption faces barriers in sectors such as manufacturing and healthcare. Future research could focus on the application of artificial intelligence in energy management or on strategies to overcome the economic barriers to energy transition.

3.4. Comparison of Strategies by Sector and Region

Table 6. Sectoral and regional approaches to energy sustainability strategies in organizations for energy sustainability (2020–2024).

Year	Sector	Geographic Region	Best Practice in Energy Management	Impact on Organizational Performance	Source/Reference
	Public Policy/Government	Global	Implementation of comprehensive sustainability policies in energy management.	Improved efficiency, cost reduction, and regulatory compliance	García, J. & Martínez, L. (Energy Policy)
2020	Industrial/Energy Services	North America/Global	Integration of digital tools and monitoring systems	Increased operating efficiency and waste reduction	Rodríguez, P.; Sánchez, A.; Fernández, M. (Renewable & Sustainable Energy Reviews)
2020	Business/Industrial	Europa	Development of business models based on circular economy and renewable energies.	Increased competitiveness and financial sustainability	Torres, R. & Delgado, F. (Journal of Cleaner Production)
2021	Corporate	Latin America	Integration of ethical and sustainable criteria in energy resource management	Reputation enhancement and optimization of resource use	Pérez, A. & Ramírez, J. (Journal of Business Ethics)
2022	Multisectorial	Global	Implementation of collaborative and multidisciplinary strategies.	Improved organizational resilience and adaptability	Rodríguez, C.M.; Benítez, J.S.; Rodas, C.F.R.; et al. (Sustainability).
2023	Industrial/Manufacturing	Europa	Creation of intelligent hubs integrating Industry 4.0 solutions	Increased efficiency and competitiveness through technological integration	Kluczek, A.; Buczacki, A. (Energy Reports)
2024	Urban/Municipal	Asia	Smart landscaping design for net-zero cities	Optimization of urban energy consumption and improvement in quality of life	Liu, H.Y.; Zoh, K. (Sustainable Energy Technologies and Assessments)
2024	Industrial/Technological	Europa	Application of Industry 4.0 technologies to optimize energy use	Increased productivity and reduced energy consumption	Jiménez, C. & Navarro, D. (Energy Policy)

compiles the main orientations documented in the literature on the implementation of energy sustainability strategies in organizations in different sectors and regions:

3.5. Identification of Best Practices by Sector and Geographic Region

The reviewed literature identifies a number of best practices in energy management, applied in different sectors and regions of the world, which have evolved over time, adapting to technological advances and context-specific shortcomings. Subsequently, the main practices identified in the public sector, industry, and manufacturing, as well as in the fields of health and urban planning, are presented.

3.5.1. Public Sector and Policies

At the governmental level, the implementation of comprehensive energy sustainability policies has been promoted with the aim of establishing regulatory frameworks that encourage the adoption of renewable energies and promote an effective energy transition. During the years 2020 and 2021, the literature highlights the importance of designing regulatory strategies that encourage investment in clean infrastructure and improve energy efficiency in different productive sectors (Energy Policy, 2020–2021), which promote the reduction in carbon emissions, the diversification of energy sources, and the strengthening of sustainable financing models. At the global level, countries such as China, Germany, and the United States have led the formulation of regulatory frameworks that have served as a reference for other regions.

3.5.2. Industry and Manufacturing

The industrial sector has been a key player in the adoption of energy sustainability strategies. Between 2020 and 2023, research has documented the increasing integration of enabling factors such as digitalization, circular economy, and Industry 4.0 in production processes to improve efficiency and reduce environmental impact. Digitalization achieves the implementation of intelligent energy monitoring systems, optimizing resource consumption and reducing energy waste. Likewise, the circular economy has been adopted in multiple industries in order to reuse materials, reduce waste, and improve efficiency in the supply chain.

A highlight in the literature is the implementation of smart technologies such as IoT, energy management systems (EMS), and the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to optimize efficiency in factories and production centers, which have been applied in both large industries and SMEs, with particular impact in Europe, Asia, and North America, where government incentives and environmental regulations have accelerated the adoption of these models. Advanced manufacturing has proven to be a key factor in reducing the environmental impact of the sector, with improvements in energy efficiency and reduced operating costs.

3.5.3. Health and Urban Sector

More recently, in 2024, specific approaches for energy optimization in hospitals and urban settings have emerged, highlighting the growing relevance of energy sustainability in the utilities sector. The literature has identified that hospitals and healthcare facilities represent one of the largest consumers of energy, due to the need to ensure a constant and secure energy supply for patient care and the operation of advanced medical equipment. Recent research has proposed protocols for energy efficiency in hospitals, focusing on optimizing the use of lighting, air conditioning, and high-consumption medical equipment.

At the urban level, sustainable energy planning has gained importance, especially in Latin America and Asia, where cities are adopting smart landscaping and sustainable architecture models to reduce their environmental impact [40]. The integration of renewable technologies in buildings, the use of smart grids, and the optimization of urban transportation are some of the key strategies identified to move towards cities with a lower carbon footprint and greater energy efficiency.

Overall, the identification of best practices by sector and geographic region reflects the diversity of approaches to energy management. While in the public sector, regulatory policies have played a crucial role in the energy transition; in the industrial sector, digitalization and the circular economy have been fundamental to optimizing processes and reducing environmental impact. Moreover, the health sector and urban planning have emerged as key areas in the search for innovative solutions to advance energy efficiency in high-consumption environments.

3.6. Organizational Performance Impact Assessment

It is evident that the implementation of energy sustainability strategies contributes to the mitigation of climate change and the optimization of energy consumption and, at the same time, generates significant impacts on organizational performance. Below are the main benefits identified in the adoption of these strategies, grouped into the following four key areas: operational efficiency, financial competitiveness, corporate image, and organizational resilience.

3.6.1. Operational Efficiency and Cost Reduction

The integration of digital technologies and intelligent systems enables organizations to optimize their energy consumption, significantly reducing their operating costs. The implementation of tools such as IoT, smart sensors, and data analysis platforms facilitates real-time monitoring of energy, allowing inefficiencies to be detected and processes to be proactively adjusted.

In addition, the incorporation of renewable technologies in buildings, the use of smart grids, and the optimization of urban transport are some of the key approaches within energy sustainability strategies to move towards cities with a lower carbon footprint and greater energy efficiency.

Recent studies have shown that industries that have adopted digitized EMS have managed to reduce their energy consumption between 10% and 30%, depending on the sector and the level of automation implemented [41,42]. Evidently, these measures have been effective in sectors such as manufacturing, health, and urban services, where the optimization of energy consumption has a direct impact on the reduction in operating costs and profitability of the organization.

3.6.2. Competitiveness and Financial Sustainability

Energy sustainability strategies have driven the adoption of business models based on the circular economy and technological innovation to increase their long-term resilience and competitiveness. Companies that have integrated material reuse practices, clean energy generation, and operational efficiency have been able to improve their market positioning and reduce their dependence on unsustainable energy sources.

Also, incorporating renewable sources such as solar panels and energy storage systems reduces their exposure to energy price volatility and improves their responsiveness to regulatory changes or energy crises. Several researchers point out that companies investing in renewable energy can experience a return on investment in less than five years, especially in countries with tax incentives for energy sustainability [43,44,45].

3.6.3. Corporate Image and Regulatory Compliance

Compliance with environmental regulations and sustainability policies has strengthened the organizational reputation of those companies that have opted for sustainable energy strategies. In a context where consumers and stakeholders increasingly value environmental responsibility, organizations that implement energy efficiency and emissions reduction measures can differentiate themselves in the market and generate a positive perception among their customers and strategic allies.

In addition, access to sustainable financing mechanisms, such as green bonds and lines of credit for sustainable energy projects, has been a key incentive for the adoption of these strategies. International banks and multilateral organizations have increased their support for companies that demonstrate a real commitment to sustainability, facilitating access to investments in strategic sectors.

3.6.4. Organizational Adaptability and Resilience

Collaborative strategies enable organizations to adapt to environmental and energy changes more effectively. Considering that organizational change management has been a determining factor in promoting the adoption of new technologies and the implementation of sustainable energy models.

A case analysis highlights that companies that have developed flexible and multidisciplinary strategies have achieved greater resilience in the face of energy crises and fluctuations in energy prices [46]. Collaboration between different sectors, the integration of knowledge networks, and continuous training in sustainability have been key to ensuring a successful and lasting energy transition.

Therefore, assessing the impact of energy sustainability strategies on organizational performance confirms that they generate environmental benefits and drive operational efficiency, profitability, business reputation, and organizational resilience. As regulations and market expectations continue to evolve, organizations that implement sustainable energy models will be better positioned to meet the challenges of the future.

3.7. Bibliometric Analysis and Scientific Collaboration Networks

Bibliometric analysis is a fundamental tool for understanding the evolution and trends in energy sustainability research. Through co-occurrence maps, collaboration between authors, and international cooperation, it is possible to identify the main directions, the most influential research networks, and opportunities to strengthen scientific collaboration in this field.

3.7.1. Map of Co-Occurrences of Key Terms

The bibliometric interpretation of the literature on energy sustainability between 2020 and 2024 reveals that research in this field is organized into four main thematic areas, reflecting the main study trends and strategic approaches for the transition towards more sustainable energy models.

First, digitalization emerges as a key element in the optimization of energy consumption. Concepts such as IoT, machine learning, AI, smart grids, and SGE have gained prominence in the recent literature. The integration of these technologies is facilitating the transition to more efficient and resilient energy systems by enabling more accurate monitoring and control of energy use.

In turn, the literature explores the relationship between energy sustainability and economic growth, highlighting the importance of sustainable investments, efficient resource management, and the development of favorable economic policies, which underline that the energy transition responds to an environmental demand and, at the same time, represents a key factor for global economic development. In this sense, the financing of sustainable projects and the integration of business models oriented towards energy efficiency are central aspects of recent research (Figure 2).

Moreover, a growing interest has been identified in the application of sustainable strategies in agriculture and bioenergy, with a special emphasis on the production of energy from agricultural residues. Concepts such as crop production, fertilizer, and anaerobic digestion appear with high frequency in the literature, indicating that the conversion of organic waste into energy is a key approach within energy sustainability strategies in agriculture and energy production, promoting solutions that reduce dependence on fossil fuels and favor the circular economy.

Energy sustainability is therefore closely linked to waste management and the reduction in environmental impact. In recent years, the importance of efficient waste management, plastics recycling, and the transition to circular economy models has been emphasized as ways to minimize waste generation and maximize the reuse of materials, promoting business practices that reduce the ecological footprint and contribute to the decarbonization of the economy.

The review confirms that energy efficiency, digitalization, and the circular economy have been key factors within the main lines of research in energy sustainability in recent years. Through their interdisciplinary direction and the growing convergence between technological innovation and environmental management, they consolidate the role of energy sustainability as an essential pillar of global development.

3.7.2. Map of Collaboration Between Authors

The assessment of co-authorship in energy sustainability research between 2020 and 2024 addresses the main clusters of researchers who have worked in this field. The map reveals the existence of three main clusters, each with particular characteristics in terms of their level of collaboration and thematic focus.

The first group, represented in blue, consists of authors such as Parkash, Kumar, Dwivedi, Srivastava, Prakash Singh, and Sindhu Singh, and is characterized by strong internal interconnectedness, indicating a community of researchers with a highly specialized focus on certain aspects of energy sustainability. However, it presents limited collaboration with other groups, suggesting that their research could benefit from more interdisciplinary integration [47]. Whereas the second group, identified in red, is composed of researchers such as Kamboj, Sadh, Chawla, Saharan, Seth, Sridhar, Duhan, and Sharma, who maintain multiple connections with each other and are noted for their bridging role between different scientific communities, suggesting a greater degree of interdisciplinary collaboration. Their structure indicates that researchers within this group have worked on a variety of topics within energy sustainability, facilitating the exchange of knowledge and guidance [48].

Finally, the third group, represented in green, includes authors such as Aghbashlo, Hosseinzadeh Bandbafha, Shahbeik, and Tabatabaei, who represent a more closed collaboration structure, with a very well-defined thematic axis. However, some connections with external authors suggest the existence of punctual international collaborations, which could indicate the beginning of greater integration with other lines of research [49].

Research on co-authorship networks shows that, although there are well-established scientific communities in energy sustainability research, there is still fragmentation in collaboration between research groups. To accelerate the development of energy sustainability strategies and foster innovation in the field, it would be advisable to strengthen interdisciplinary linkages and foster knowledge exchange between different areas. Greater collaboration between these clusters integrates diverse methodologies and improves applicability in different sectors.

3.7.3. International Collaboration Map

The bibliometric analysis of international collaboration in energy sustainability reveals a remarkable concentration of scientific production in a small group of countries, with China, the United States, and India emerging as the main players in the field (Figure 3). These nations not only generate the largest number of publications in the area but also maintain broad and diversified cooperation networks with other regions of the world. Their leadership is due, in large part, to their investment in research and development, as well as collaboration with academic and governmental institutions in other countries.

In Latin America, Mexico, Brazil, and Argentina stand out as the main contributors to energy sustainability research. Mexico maintains significant links with Spain, Portugal, and the United States, reflecting active cooperation with Europe and the influence of Anglo-Saxon scientific production. Brazil, for its part, has established collaborative relationships with China, India, and other countries in the region, playing a key role in integrating Latin America into the sustainability debate. However, outside of these connections, Latin America’s participation in global scientific networks remains limited, which restricts its impact on the formulation of energy policies and strategies at the global level (Figure 4).

Other Latin American countries, such as Chile and Colombia, have a notable presence in scientific production on energy sustainability, although their level of integration in the global network is lower. In contrast, nations such as Ecuador, Bolivia, and Paraguay show minimal participation in international research, suggesting barriers in terms of financing, infrastructure, and access to scientific collaboration networks.

It is suggested that Latin America urgently needs to strengthen its scientific cooperation ties with other regions to consolidate its role in energy sustainability research. Fostering international collaborative networks, increasing investment in research, and generating publication in high-impact journals are key strategies to improve the region’s presence in the global debate on energy transition and sustainable development.

The bibliometric review confirms that energy sustainability is a rapidly expanding field, with an increasingly interdisciplinary approach. Co-occurrence maps show that the main research trends revolve around digitalization, energy efficiency, and the circular economy, while co-authorship analysis reveals the need to strengthen collaboration between research groups and foster greater scientific integration at the global level.

In addition, the geographical distribution of scientific production not only shows the leadership of China, the United States, and India in the field but also highlights opportunities for Latin America to expand its participation in research on energy sustainability strategies in organizations. To this end, it is essential to consolidate international cooperation networks and facilitate the integration of countries with lower representation in scientific production, enabling the region to actively contribute to the formulation of innovative solutions for energy transition and global sustainability.

3.8. Emerging Trends and Future Directions in Energy Sustainability

Energy sustainability between 2020 and 2024 reveals key trends that have driven the transformation of the sector. Digitalization, circular economy, and optimization of resource use have been the main drivers of change in energy management. However, significant gaps persist that limit the effective implementation of these energy sustainability strategies, especially in emerging economies.

One of the most relevant trends is digital transformation as a driver of energy sustainability. Technologies such as digital twins, big data, and smart management platforms facilitate more accurate monitoring of energy consumption, facilitating decision-making based on real-time data. In addition, the integration of these technologies with renewable energy sources has improved the resilience of energy systems, optimizing their efficiency and reducing their environmental impact.

Another key trend is the increasing incorporation of circular economy principles in energy management. Organizations have implemented industrial symbiosis and energy recovery models, achieving the use of by-products and waste to generate energy more efficiently, being relevant in manufacturing, where the reuse of materials and the optimization of processes have demonstrated both environmental and economic benefits.

Despite this progress, there are significant research gaps that need to be addressed to consolidate the transition to more sustainable and efficient energy systems. First, there is limited integration in emerging economies, which restricts the global applicability of many strategies developed in industrialized countries. In addition, the lack of standardized frameworks for assessing the impact of energy strategies makes it difficult to compare results and formulate effective policies.

Another challenge is the gap between technological innovation and global energy regulations. While digitalization and renewable energies are advancing rapidly, regulatory and legislative frameworks have not evolved as quickly, generating uncertainty in the implementation of new solutions. Furthermore, the scarcity of research on financing models for energy sustainability represents a barrier to the adoption of innovative approaches to energy management, especially in sectors that require long-term investment.

In conclusion, energy sustainability has experienced significant progress in recent years, driven by digitalization and the circular economy. However, it is necessary to continue developing integrative visions to overcome existing barriers and ensure an effective energy transition. Future research should focus on adapting energy sustainability strategies to emerging economies, harmonizing regulations with technological innovation, and formulating sustainable financial models that facilitate their implementation at a global level.

4. Discussion

The progressive transformation of energy sustainability strategies at the organizational level between 2020 and 2024 reflects a transition from approaches focused on operational efficiency towards comprehensive models that promote sustainable practices through digital transformation and optimization of organizational processes. Therefore, this transition confirms previous trends in the literature, which highlight the convergence between digital transformation and sustainability as a driver of the reconfiguration of EMSs in different productive sectors [9].

Bibliometric analysis reveals significant differences in the adoption of sustainable strategies by region. In Europe and North America, the integration of Industry 4.0 technologies has reduced energy consumption by 25% to 40% in sectors such as manufacturing [8]. However, in Latin America, structural barriers persist, such as regulatory fragmentation, limitations in green financing, and lack of technological infrastructure, which hinder the energy transition [11].

At the organizational level, the implementation of energy sustainability strategies is associated with improvements in business performance. It has been documented that these strategies can reduce energy costs by 15–30%, in addition to generating benefits in competitiveness, corporate reputation, and innovation [12]. The results identify energy sustainability as a key strategic factor for long-term business competitiveness [10].

From a conceptual perspective, the comprehensive Triple Bottom Line (TBL) approach, proposed by [24], allows for a holistic assessment of the impact of energy sustainability strategies, considering their influence on economic, social, and environmental outcomes. Therefore, adopting this multidimensional approach maximizes the organizational benefits derived from sustainability.

In the same context, Institutional Theory [15] explains how organizations adopt sustainable practices due to normative (government regulation), mimetic (imitation of sector leaders), and cultural (social expectations) pressures. Complementarily, the Theory of Dynamic Capabilities [16] highlights the importance of developing organizational skills to detect, absorb, and transform technological innovations, thus ensuring an effective and sustainable energy transition. The results of the review confirm that organizations that manage to articulate these theoretical approaches in their strategies obtain greater benefits in terms of competitiveness and resilience.

A key aspect identified is the role of digital transformation in energy sustainability. Emerging technologies such as IoT, real-time data analytics, and digital twins enable more efficient energy management while facilitating the integration of renewable sources and improving operational resilience [14]. However, the rapid technological evolution has created a gap between innovation and energy regulation, introducing uncertainty in the adoption of new sustainable practices [50].

Likewise, key barriers to the implementation of organizational strategies for energy sustainability were identified. Among the most relevant are the lack of technical capabilities, organizational resistance to change, lack of financial incentives, and regulatory uncertainty. The absence of specialized personnel and the lack of adequate economic incentives hinder the transition to more sustainable energy models [11].

Conversely, enablers of energy transition include committed organizational leadership, availability of mature technologies, and access to green finance [51]. Companies with a clear vision of sustainability are more likely to succeed in implementing energy strategies, especially when they have advanced systems for monitoring and optimizing consumption. In addition, green bonds, sustainable investment funds, and international financing programs have driven the adoption of these strategies in different sectors [10].

Documented cases demonstrate the positive impact of these strategies. In the European manufacturing sector, a company that adopted an IoT system for energy management reduced its energy consumption by 25% with a return on investment in just 18 months [52]. In Latin America, a hospital that implemented a hybrid renewable energy system reduced its energy costs by 30%, improving its operational resilience. Examples demonstrate the feasibility and benefits of energy sustainability when the right resources are in place [41,53].

For example, documented cases highlight the feasibility and tangible benefits of adopting sustainable strategies when the right resources are in place. In Europe, a manufacturing company that adopted an IoT system for energy management reduced its energy consumption by 25% and achieved a return on investment in just 18 months. Similarly, in Latin America, a hospital that implemented a hybrid renewable energy system reduced its energy costs by 30%, increasing its operational resilience and ensuring continuity of services in critical situations [41,53].

In summary, the literature confirms that energy sustainability has evolved from an assessment focused on operational efficiency to a more comprehensive model involving digitalization, circular economy, and sustainable financing. However, structural and regulatory challenges persist that limit its adoption. Clearly, energy sustainability is not only an environmental urgency but also a strategic imperative for the competitiveness and economic stability of organizations.

The systematic review brings new insights to the field of organizational energy sustainability by integrating a bibliometric and qualitative approach in examining strategies implemented in different regions and sectors. First, gaps in the literature are identified, especially regarding the adoption of sustainable strategies in emerging economies and the lack of longitudinal results to assess long-term impacts [54]. Second, the application of bibliometric analysis allows visualizing key trends, collaborative networks, and conceptual evolution of the field, providing a structured framework for future research. Definitely, the comparison between different regions and sectors evidences significant disparities in strategy implementation, highlighting the need for differentiated strategies according to the economic, regulatory, and technological environment. The results provide a comprehensive perspective on the transition to energy sustainability and its implications for policy formulation and organizational strategies.

It is important to consider that one of the points that requires the most attention is precisely the application of Institutional Theory and Dynamic Capabilities Theory in each of the organizational strategies for energy sustainability. However, this analysis allows us to identify both theories as important analytical frameworks in the systematic review, which reveals the scarcity of studies that help to document precisely how current organizations implement and apply these theoretical concepts. As seen in the theoretical section, most organizations that have adopted these practices in accordance with international sustainability standards have undoubtedly achieved greater stability and access to green financing [5,11], which serves as a partial example for the application of Institutional Theory. However, as mentioned in the trends section, there are organizations that have successfully implemented smart centers that integrate Industry 4.0 solutions [41], pointing out that these examples demonstrate their ability to adapt significantly to the abrupt changes that technology has brought with it. Furthermore, it should be noted that these examples offer a limited view of the problems that have arisen in different organizational environments, so this is an area that future research should explore in greater depth.

5. Conclusions

The systematic review shows that the transition to energy sustainability at the organizational level involves optimizing energy consumption, transforming business models, and restructuring corporate governance. The results show that the adoption of sustainable strategies not only improves operational efficiency and organizational resilience but also generates lasting competitive advantages in different sectors.

In this context, recent evidence underlines the fundamental role of digitalization and the adoption of emerging technologies to improve operational efficiency and reduce energy consumption. Studies indicate that digital transformation has generated energy consumption reductions of between 25% and 40% in key industrial sectors [55]. Likewise, research such as [25] highlights that the implementation of the principles of the circular economy and sustainable resource management not only increases competitiveness but also strengthens organizational resilience in the face of regulatory changes.

In turn, digital transformation is emerging as a key catalyst for sustainable energy management. Technologies such as IoT, AI, and advanced energy management systems have been shown to optimize resource use and facilitate the integration of renewable sources. However, the adoption of these technologies varies significantly across regions due to structural barriers that hinder their implementation in emerging economies. It is therefore crucial to develop strategies adapted to different contexts, considering the infrastructure, financing, and regulatory constraints in each region.

Regarding the adoption of AI and smart grids, these technologies have proven to significantly improve energy efficiency by optimizing resource management and facilitating the integration of renewable sources. By analyzing large volumes of data in real time, they enable predictive management that reduces energy consumption and extends equipment lifetime, establishing themselves as key tools for the transition towards energy sustainability.

In addition to these technical benefits, the adoption of sustainable strategies generates a positive impact on organizational performance beyond cost reduction. An improvement in corporate reputation, a greater capacity for innovation, and an increase in the attraction of sustainable investment have been observed in those companies that integrate sustainability into their strategies. However, the effectiveness of these strategies depends on clear regulatory frameworks, adequate financial incentives, and access to advanced technologies.

Moreover, recent evidence indicates that the adoption of sustainable strategies not only strengthens brand perception but also attracts responsible investments. Research such as [38] highlights that the implementation of green finance models and sustainable bonds reduces financial risk and, at the same time, generates greater confidence among investors interested in supporting projects with a positive impact.

From a future research perspective, several key areas for further progress in the field of organizational energy sustainability are identified. First, there is a need to develop standardized indicators that benchmark the impact of long-term energy strategies. Secondly, it is recommended to explore innovative financing models, such as green bonds and tax incentives, to facilitate the adoption of these strategies in developing economies. Finally, enhancing international cooperation and the creation of inter-regional research networks will be crucial to consolidating energy sustainability as a central axis in global business management.

In this sense, Ref. [56] highlights the importance of innovative financing models to promote the adoption of sustainable strategies, particularly in emerging economies, where access to capital for sustainable projects remains limited. Likewise, [55] emphasizes that international cooperation and interregional research networks play a crucial role in ensuring knowledge transfer and capacity development in the energy transition.

Finally, this review consolidates existing knowledge on energy sustainability at the organizational level and provides a new perspective on its evolution at the sectoral and regional levels. Together with the bibliometric analysis, which has allowed structuring the area and visualizing emerging trends in digitalization, circular economy, and sustainable financing, it underlines the need to continue developing empirical and longitudinal assessments that deepen the effectiveness of energy strategies in different organizational settings, thus ensuring an energetically sustainable and resilient future.