Advancing the solar cooking revolution: Insights into the evolving landscape of solar PV-based electric cooking

In recent years, there has been a significant emphasis on transitioning to sustainable energy technologies. Among these, electric cooking (e-cooking) has emerged as a promising alternative to traditional cooking methods. This study employed a systematic review and bibliometric analysis to investigate emerging trends and advancements in solar PV-based e-cooking technology. The systematic review followed the PRISMA guidelines, and the bibliometric analysis utilised the R Studio Bibliometrix software package in conjunction with the Biblioshiny interface. The findings revealed a growing research interest in solar PV-based e-cooking, driven by concerns about climate change, energy security, and environmental sustainability, such as deforestation, indoor air pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions. The thematic analysis identified core research areas, including solar PV systems, renewable energy integration, developing clean and efficient cooking solutions, and addressing socio-economic factors for widespread adoption. Advancements were observed in areas such as solar PV-powered cooking devices, integrating PV e-cooking into microgrids and mini-grids, and exploring solar PV-based hydrogen production for cooking. Socio-economic and cultural factors were recognised as pivotal for successful technology adoption. The study highlights the potential of solar PV-based e-cooking as a sustainable and clean cooking solution and proposes future research directions, including optimisation of cooking devices, integration with advanced technologies, and comprehensive assessments of techno-economic viability and life-cycle impacts. The study findings are vital to researchers, policymakers, and industry stakeholders advancing the e-cooking sector for sustainable development.