TITLE:
The Role of Mathematical Modeling and Optimization in Achieving Sustainable Energy Transitioning Goals (SDG-7): A Systematic Literature Review of Ghana’s Biofuel Transition Supply Chain
AUTHORS:
Gideon Fraser, Akyene Tetteh
KEYWORDS:
Sustainable Development Goal 7, Mathematical Modeling and Optimization, Biofuel Transition Supply Chain, Sustainable Energy Transition, Ghana
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Business and Management,
Vol.14 No.1,
January
21,
2026
ABSTRACT: The universal access to clean and affordable energy goal (Sustainable Development Goal 7) is essential for sustainable development. For Ghana and several other developing countries, especially those within Sub-Saharan Africa, the transition to renewable energy is a non-negotiable approach to achieving sustainable development through energy security and promoting a green economy (GE). However, the transition to renewable energy presents several challenges, including supply chain uncertainties, which may significantly affect implementation and raise environmental, economic, and social concerns. Ghana, a case study in this research, has established ambitious targets for greenhouse gas emission reductions to achieve net zero CO2 emissions by 2060. The targeted 10% integration of biofuels into national transportation energy for 2020 has not been achieved, and the 20% target for 2030 appears increasingly unlikely. This research aims to analyze the challenges associated with Ghana’s biofuel transition supply chain, with a key objective of proposing how mathematical modeling and optimization can facilitate Ghana’s sustainable energy transition. Bibliometric analysis was employed to assess the biofuel landscape in Ghana over the past decade (2014-2024) to understand the current state of research. The study results indicate a growing interest in biofuel research; however, applying mathematical modeling and optimization to address Ghana’s specific transitioning challenges has been limited. The study recommends advancing technologies such as computer simulations and mathematical optimization models in research and expanding knowledge in these areas to enhance the likelihood of achieving sustainable biofuel transition goals in Ghana.