Abstract
<jats:p>The deployment of pumped-hydro storage (PHS) systems in the island of Crete, Greece allows the higher integration of the abundant renewable energies of the island into the electric grid increasing its stability and quality. Pumped-hydro storage is broadly used worldwide for energy storage having many advantages compared with other energy storage technologies. The clean energy transition in Crete requires the higher use of solar and wind energy for power generation while power storage is necessary for integrating intermittent energy sources, like solar and wind energy, into the grid. A Political, Economic, Social, Technological, Environmental and Legal (PESTEL) analysis regarding the development of PHS systems in Crete has been conducted. The external factors affecting their deployment have been analyzed. It has been indicated that the Greek and EU policies regarding the promotion of renewable energies and the mitigation of climate change affect their deployment in Crete. Additionally, the acceptance of PHS systems from local communities, the increase of local employment and the public concern about water availability as well as the maturity and reliability of PHS technology, the good morphological characteristics in Crete affect the deployment of PHS systems in the island. Finally, the impacts of PHS systems on natural ecosystems, landscapes, natural habitats, water resources and climate change affect the deployment of PHS systems in Crete. The current work could be useful to local authorities and policy makers, to energy companies and investors as well as to the operator of the electric grid.</jats:p>