Snowy 2.0 underground power station enters fit-out phase

The Snowy 2.0 pumped-storage hydropower project in New South Wales, Australia, has entered the fit-out phase for its underground power station. Located nearly 1km below ground at the Lobs Hole site, excavation of the machine and transformer halls is more than 90% complete.

Construction crews have begun permanent concrete pours and are preparing to install over 1,400 precast concrete elements. These structures will house major equipment, including transformers weighing more than 400t each. All six reversible pump-turbines have arrived in Australia, while high-voltage transformers are undergoing final testing. Teams are also preparing to install inlet valves and spiral casings to direct water into the generating units.

The project involves approximately 27km of tunnels linking the Tantangara and Talbingo reservoirs. Once complete, the scheme will provide 2,200MW of capacity and approximately 350GWh of energy storage, aimed at increasing Australia’s energy reliability. More than 5,000 people are currently working on the project.