Smart Energy System from Socio-technical Perspectives: A Semi Systematic Literature Review

Smart Energy System (SES) is seen as a solution to mitigate environmental degradation and energy supply challenges. The primary aim of this study is to explore the interactions between social and technical subsystems within SES to achieve joint optimisations. The chapter employs a semi-systematic literature review via searches conducted within the Scopus database, due to its comprehensiveness and multidisciplinarity. The study reveals that while technological aspects of SES have received significant attention, the interplay between technology and society remains relatively understudied. SES has the potential to revolutionise energy systems but faces challenges related to equity, data privacy, interoperability, grid integration, and adaptability. The chapter underscores the need for a holistic approach that considers both technical and social subsystems in SES development. Collaboration between the two domains can lead to joint optimisations, enhancing SES efficiency, transparency, stability, sustainability, security, and privacy.