The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into sustainable energy management presents a transformative opportunity to elevate the sustainability, reliability, and efficiency of energy systems. This article conducts an exhaustive analysis of the critical aspects concerning the AI-sustainable energy nexus, encompassing the challenges in technological integration and the facilitation of intelligent decision-making processes pivotal for sustainable energy frameworks. It is demonstrated that AI applications, ranging from optimization algorithms to predictive analytics, possess a revolutionary capacity to bolster intelligent decision-making in sustainable energy. However, this integration is not without its challenges, which span technological complexities and socio-economic impacts. The article underscores the imperative for deploying AI in a manner that is transparent, equitable, and inclusive. Best practices and solutions are proposed to navigate these challenges effectively. Additionally, the discourse extends to recent advancements in AI, including edge computing, quantum computing, and explainable AI, offering insights into the evolving landscape of sustainable energy. Future research directions are delineated, emphasizing the importance of enhancing explainability, mitigating bias, advancing privacy-preserving techniques, examining socio-economic ramifications, exploring models of human-AI collaboration, fortifying security measures, and evaluating the impact of emerging technologies. This comprehensive analysis aims to inform academics, practitioners, and policymakers, guiding the creation of a resilient and sustainable energy future.