The Crossroads of the Knowledge Economy and Renewable Energy: Recommendations for Poland

Abstract

The knowledge economy is becoming a key factor in the sustainable development of various sectors, including energy. One of the central elements in the energy of the future is renewable energy, which is becoming increasingly important in the global economy, especially in the context of achieving Sustainable Development Goal 7.a (SDG 7.a). In the last decade, Poland, like many other countries, has faced energy security challenges; a strong dependence on fossil energy sources, including imported ones; and the need to modernize its energy infrastructure. The development of renewable energy sources in Poland is becoming a priority in the state energy policy, facilitated by global trends and international commitments, including participation in achieving the SDGs. The knowledge economy is based on the efficient use of intellectual resources, innovative technologies, and scientific data. This article analyzes the role of scientific publications in forming innovative solutions for the energy sector, including renewable energy. The authors used modern research methods: scientometric, bibliometric, and correlation analyses of publications in the Scopus database and a specially created prompt for the processing of an array of 1,731,987 information units and z-statistics. The authors found six hidden reasons limiting the publication activity of Polish energy scientists. These reasons led Poland to leave the top 20 leading countries in the world market for scientific products in the energy sector. As a result, the authors rejected three research hypotheses and formulated management recommendations. This study emphasizes the importance of the knowledge economy in developing sustainable energy in Poland and the world.