Advancements in semi-transparent photovoltaic technologies: a bibliometric analysis

Abstract Semi-transparent photovoltaics (STPV) represent an emerging technology that integrates with aesthetic and functional transparency, enabling integration into modern architectural designs. This study conducts a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of global STPV research from 2006 to 2023, using Biblioshiny in RStudio and VOSviewer for performance and science mapping. A total of 364 articles from 107 journals were analysed to identify influential authors, sources, and thematic clusters. The field demonstrated a strong annual growth rate (19.6%) and an average of 36 citations per article, reflecting rising academic and industrial interest. Key research areas include material innovations (perovskite, dye-sensitised, and organic solar cells), architectural integration, and system optimisation for energy efficiency. The analysis identifies efficiency, cost, and durability as persistent challenges, with bibliometric evidence showing that efficiency dominates material studies, cost appears in life-cycle and economic analyses, and durability is associated with environmental testing. The growing importance of perovskite STPV research suggests that future work should prioritise stability and scalability for building-integrated applications. These findings serve as a valuable reference for researchers, architects, and policymakers seeking to advance STPV as a viable solution for sustainable urban environments.