Energy Efficiency and Environmental Performance of Retractable Roof Systems: A Bibliometric Analysis and Systematic Review

Abstract

Retractable roofs are advanced technological systems that provide spatial flexibility by extending or retracting as needed, while enhancing the user experience in a variety of structures, including stadiums, sports arenas, theaters, and large event venues. Existing studies primarily evaluate these systems based on their movement and transformation types, structural characteristics, or architectural design perspectives. However, assessments of their energy performance and environmental impact remain limited. This study addresses an underexplored area of research: the relationship between retractable roofs and energy efficiency and environmental performance. To investigate this relationship, a bibliometric analysis is undertaken using the Scopus database, with the results visualized through VOSviewer. The analysis includes publication trends, co-occurrence of author keywords and co-citation of cited references, followed by a systematic review of selected real-world projects. The results indicate that research focusing on both retractable roofs and energy efficiency in stadiums is rare, resulting in a limited dataset for this study. Nevertheless, the findings suggest that studies on retractable roofs are still in a developmental phase. By mapping the existing literature, this study identifies current research trends, highlights critical knowledge gaps, and proposes future directions that integrate energy and environmental considerations into retractable roof research.