Snowy-2.0

‘15-km deep and they stopped’: Australia’s tunnel reveals an eerie discovery

Produced by: Manoj Kumar

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Tunnel vision

The Snowy 2.0 project aims to carve a 15-km tunnel under Australia’s Snowy Mountains for renewable energy storage.

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Energy ambition

This pumped-hydro project seeks to stabilize Australia’s energy grid, linking reservoirs via 27 km of tunnels.

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Florence digs

The Tunnel Boring Machine “Florence,” named after Florence Violet McKenzie, tackles dense rock formations.

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Geological twist

Unexpected unstable rock layers forced a halt, highlighting the risks of deep Earth tunneling.

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Hidden structures

Subterranean anomalies, beyond geological norms, were uncovered, raising new engineering challenges.

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Progress paused

Snowy Hydro confirmed Florence is operational but advancing slowly after breaking through abrasive rock.

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Hydro blasts

Hydro blasting now helps Florence navigate the complex terrain, ensuring alignment with tunnel goals.

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Key milestones

Excavation of the gate shaft, critical for regulating water flow, marks progress at Tantangara Reservoir.

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Energy future

Despite setbacks, Snowy 2.0 remains a beacon for renewable energy innovation in Australia’s clean energy push.