Title:
Power Storage With Pumped-hydro Storage Systems in the Island of Crete, Greece. A SWOT Analysis

Authors:
Vourdoubas John, Greece

Abstract:

The deployment of pumped-hydro storage systems in the island of Crete, Greece, allows the higher integration of the abundant renewable energies of the island into the electric grid. Pumped-hydro storage (PHS) is broadly used worldwide for energy storage, having many advantages compared with other technologies. The clean energy transition in the island 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 Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats (SWOT) analysis regarding the development of pumped-hydro storage systems in Crete has been conducted. The strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats of the technology have been analyzed. The main strengths include the maturity and reliability of the technology, the good geomorphological characteristics of the island for its adoption, the improvement in grid characteristics, the high domestic value of these systems, their long life-span, their high storage capacity and their low capital cost- $/kWh.  SWOT's weaknesses include high investment costs, geographic and water limitations, environmental concerns, integration complexities, and competition from other power storage options.  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. 

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.51505/ijaemr.2026.1108