This study combines traditional and bibliometric analysis with PESTEL analysis to review the marine energy environment. Marine energy is a promising renewable resource but faces challenges in development. The study identifies key opportunities such as renewable energy targets, GHG reduction goals, job creation, and low emissions. Challenges include lack of standardization, high initial costs, inadequate legal frameworks, and competition from other renewables. Bibliometric analysis from 2013 to 2023 shows tidal power is a major research focus, with studies focusing on efficiency improvements and resource potential. PESTEL analysis highlights political, economic, social, technological, environmental, and legal factors affecting the sector. The study recommends increased government-private sector collaboration, public education, and R&D investment. It also identifies research gaps and potential future areas. The study finds that China, the UK, the USA, and France are leading in marine energy research. The UK has the highest citation count, while China leads in document production. The study emphasizes the need for collaboration, knowledge sharing, and addressing technical and economic challenges to advance marine energy development.This study combines traditional and bibliometric analysis with PESTEL analysis to review the marine energy environment. Marine energy is a promising renewable resource but faces challenges in development. The study identifies key opportunities such as renewable energy targets, GHG reduction goals, job creation, and low emissions. Challenges include lack of standardization, high initial costs, inadequate legal frameworks, and competition from other renewables. Bibliometric analysis from 2013 to 2023 shows tidal power is a major research focus, with studies focusing on efficiency improvements and resource potential. PESTEL analysis highlights political, economic, social, technological, environmental, and legal factors affecting the sector. The study recommends increased government-private sector collaboration, public education, and R&D investment. It also identifies research gaps and potential future areas. The study finds that China, the UK, the USA, and France are leading in marine energy research. The UK has the highest citation count, while China leads in document production. The study emphasizes the need for collaboration, knowledge sharing, and addressing technical and economic challenges to advance marine energy development.