Abstract: Establishing a stable, efficient, and intelligent renewable energy system is important for promoting energy transition. Based on the patents of renewable energy systems, this study sorts out the technology framework systematically and uses social network analysis to reveal the current status and dynamic characteristics of technology associations in China and abroad. The results show an increasing trend has occurred recently in the number of patents related to renewable energy generation, energy storage, multi-energy complementation, and smart grids. Technologies for renewable energy systems can be divided into three categories－energy acquisition and application, energy conversion, and energy system construction－covering 13 technology fields. Compared with other countries, the technology network density in China continues to rise; most of its technology associations are in two modes－“energy acquisition and utilization - energy conversion” and “energy conversion - energy systems construction”. The technology network density in Japan is relatively low, and the latter mode dominates its technology associations. The United States has a high level of technology network density in recent years, and most of its technology association modes are shifting from the former to the latter. These findings not only serve as empirical references for technology innovation and integration in renewable energy development, but also provide practical implications for collaboration between energy industries.

Key words: renewable energy, energy system, smart grid, multi-energy complementation, social network analysis, technology association, technology framework