Renewable energy and microgrids for sustainable healthcare facilities: A bibliometric and content analysis

Healthcare facilities (HCFs), particularly those with limited or unreliable grid access, require continuous and dependable electricity to support the delivery of essential health services. This study examined 144 academic publications published between 2000 and 2025 and applied bibliometric and content analyses to explore renewable energy (RE) and microgrids in the context of sustainable HCFs. Scopus was used as the primary literature database. The analysis described publication trends, key contributors, keyword evolution, types and locations of HCFs studied, energy sources, storage technologies, simulation tools, and priorities in microgrid design. The results showed an increase in research output after 2020. “Microgrid,” “healthcare facilities,” and “renewable energy” were among the most frequently occurring keywords. Hospitals were the most frequently studied facility type, with Asia and Africa being the most reported locations. Solar energy emerged as the predominant source, often combined with diesel or wind, and batteries were the most commonly reported storage solution. HOMER and MATLAB were the most cited simulation tools. Technical and economic analyses were prevalent, with energy reliability and resilience frequently identified as design priorities. The study was limited to Scopus-indexed, primarily English-language publications. Recent literature indicated increased international collaboration and a heightened focus on climate change, policy, and system resilience. These findings may inform ongoing efforts to advance sustainable and resilient HCFs and support discussions related to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).