News

SNOWY HYDRO CELEBRATES $1 MILLION IN COMMUNITY GRANTS

15/09/2025

Snowy Hydro is celebrating a significant milestone, with more than $1 million donated to local organisations in the Snowy Monaro, Snowy Valleys and Towong regions through the Community Grants Program.

The major achievement highlights Snowy’s ongoing commitment to the communities it operates in and comes as the latest round of funding opens for applications.

Since 2022 the Community Grants Program, which is open to applications twice a year, has supported a diverse range of local organisations and grassroots initiatives, helping to make a tangible difference to rural communities.

Community groups and not for profit organisations across the Snowy Monaro, Snowy Valleys, and Towong regions are now invited to apply for funding.

More than $200,000 in funding is available, with eligible applicants able to apply for grants of up to $10,000.

Snowy Hydro Head of Social Impact and Community Sarah Norris said achieving $1 million in funding was a proud moment and a testament to the work of local organisations.

“This million dollar milestone represents hundreds of important local projects, from upgrades to local facilities, to new equipment for local hospitals. We’re incredibly proud of the organisations we support.

“We’re looking forward to seeing what great ideas are submitted this round and we encourage any eligible group that has an initiative to apply.”

Earlier this year, more than 100 applications were received for the first round of funding in 2025 and this went to improving accessible living infrastructure in Cooma, support for the Tumbarumbra Spring Flower Festival, and the installation of security and technology upgrades at the Corryong Craft Shop.

Funding from Snowy Hydro recently helped local wildlife rescue group, LAOKO, to purchase two large animal enclosures that will provide a safe and secure space for injured and orphaned wildlife to be rehabilitated.

Robyn George, Treasurer, LAOKO, said that as a volunteer-run organisation, any funding they receive makes a huge difference to the outcomes for the native wildlife they care for.

“We don’t receive recurrent government funding, so this kind of support is invaluable. Thanks to this funding from Snowy, our trained volunteers can give native wildlife the best possible chance of recovery before returning them to their natural environment.”

To be eligible for funding, community groups must be a not-for-profit or charity with an Australian Business Number and the project, event or initiative must directly involve or support communities located within the Snowy Monaro, Snowy Valleys or Towong local government areas.

Applications are open until 12 October 2025, with winners informed in late November. For more information and to apply, visit snowyhydro.com.au/communitygrantsprogram.

News

SNOWY 2.0 NAMES FOURTH TBM AFTER TUMUT STUDENT

10/09/2025

Monica’s artwork clinches Indigenous naming competition

The fourth mega tunnel boring machine on the Snowy 2.0 project will be named after a talented Tumut High School student who scooped top prize in an Indigenous art and storytelling competition.

Aspiring engineer Monica Brimmer, 15, wowed the judging panel with a stunning piece that reflected the spirit and purpose of Australia’s largest renewable energy project.

Inspired by flowing water, connected dams, mountains, energy, an underground power station and a connection to Country, Monica’s creation was awarded top marks in the competition, organised by Snowy Hydro in partnership with the Stars Foundation and Tumut High School.

Cheered on by her delighted schoolmates during a special school assembly, Monica said her artwork represented the creation of renewable energy and symbolised a “greener future in which the land and our animals are better cared for”.

“When my name was read out I felt nervous and surprised but also really proud. I had hoped to win the competition but I really didn’t expect it,” she said.

“Knowing there’s something really important to the project out there with my name, in the mountains, is really cool.

“I’ve been interested in engineering for quite a while – and it’s pretty cool to put art and engineering together as part of something I could put my mind to.”

Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen said Snowy 2.0 is a nation-building project and it’s fitting its next tunnel boring machine will carry the name and vision of a young local student and future engineer.

“Monica’s artwork captures the spirit of clean energy and connection to Country and reflects the brighter, cleaner energy future we’re building together,” he said.

“It’s inspiring to see the next generation in Tumut leading the way on creativity for Australia’s clean energy transformation.”

Snowy Hydro Chief Delivery Officer – Snowy 2.0 Dave Evans said the winning artwork perfectly encapsulated the project’s role in underpinning Australia’s clean energy future.

“Monica’s artwork and the story behind it blew all the judges away,” he said.

“The lightbulb shines bright and displays the power that we’re going to generate for the east coast of Australia through Snowy 2.0’s huge 2200MW capacity.

“It also perfectly highlights our workforce who are almost 1 kilometre deep underground in the Snowy Mountains building one of the world’s biggest power stations.”

Tumut High School principal Brad Taylor said the calibre of entrants was “exceptional”.

“Monica is a highly academic student, and someone that we’re very proud of at the school, so I’m not surprised she’s produced such thoughtful artwork,” he said.

Stars Foundation program coordinator Nioka Marlowe said the competition showcased students’ talents and storytelling skills.

“This made clear to these young Indigenous girls that they’re important – and they’re seen – and gave them an opportunity to be on the big stage,” she said.

The TBM will shortly begin its assembly at the Marica work site, located on the Snowy Mountains Highway near Yarrangobilly Caves, ahead of tunnelling starting in late 2025.

Julie and Monica Brimmer celebrate winning the TBM4 naming competition.

News

GET SWITCHED ON! SNOWY HYDRO’S POWERING UP THE FUTURE COMPETITION IS BACK FOR 2025

04/08/2025

Do you have a bold and innovative idea that will help build a world run on renewable energy? It doesn’t matter if your idea is big or small, local or global – we want to hear from you!

Snowy Hydro’s national science competition is back for 2025, asking kids and teenagers across the country to consider how they would help to build a future powered by renewable energy – with the most innovative and creative ideas winning prizes for both the inventor and their school.

The Powering Up the Future competition continues Snowy Hydro’s commitment to enhancing access to STEM learning opportunities through the Snowy STEM Academy and its focus on inspiring young Australians to pursue science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

With four major category prizes for both winners and runners up, the Powering Up the Future competition asks students nationwide to be a Snowy Hydro ‘futurist’ and invent a bold new idea, technology or system that helps save or reuse energy to lower emissions as Australia transitions to a renewable energy future.

Snowy Hydro Education Manager Andrew Burke said it was important to engage the workforce of tomorrow in STEM from a young age.

“Today’s children need to be prepared for the future and this competition is a fantastic way to inspire them to think creatively and develop their problem-solving skills, while considering ideas that will transform the energy industry for generations to come.

“Students will walk away from the competition with more knowledge about renewables and energy transmission, and we hope it will spark their curiosity about a future in STEM.”

The Powering Up the Future Competition calls on students who are in years 3 to 12, aged 8+, to think big or small, global or local. If it helps to build a world that runs on renewable energy, the Snowy STEM Academy wants to see it.

Students can take part on their own, or work with their class for a chance to win prizes such as a class set of robots, 3D printers, and STEM kit subscriptions. The competition opens on 4 August, and closes at midnight on 28 September 2025.

The winning entries will be displayed on the Snowy Hydro website and showcased for the public at the Snowy Hydro Discovery Centre in Cooma.

For more details, including the full terms and conditions, visit www.snowyhydro.com.au/poweringup/

News

SNOWY HYDRO SUPPORTS STUDENTS WITH LIFE CHANGING STEM SCHOLARSHIPS

07/03/2025

Two aspiring engineers will benefit from life-changing scholarships funded by Snowy Hydro to further their science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) careers.

The two scholarships will be funded by Snowy Hydro for three years, with each receiving $30,000.

The scholarships are part of Snowy Hydro’s partnership with the Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering’s (ATSE) Elevate program which helps more women and non-binary people access STEM opportunities.

Snowy Hydro CEO Dennis Barnes said he was delighted to see Snowy Hydro’s partnership with ATSE create life changing opportunities for two deserving women.

“Snowy Hydro believes supporting gender diversity in the sector is important to ensuring a strong talent pipeline of future energy leaders,” Mr Barnes said.

“The reason we joined forces with ATSE was to provide opportunities like this, to make a genuine difference in helping people who might otherwise experience barriers when pursuing a STEM career.

“We are proud to support these two ambitious and talented women from regional Australia as they develop their skills and pursue their academic journeys.”

The Scholarship beneficiaries are:

Courtney Bulgarelli: Originally from Mount Isa in far northwest Queensland, Courtney will be studying Mechatronic Engineering at the University of Southern Queensland in Toowoomba.

Jessica Thomson: Originally from Darwin in the Northern Territory, Jessica will be studying a Bachelor of Engineering (honours) at Monash University in Melbourne.

The scholarships will not only support Courtney and Jessica financially but also grant them access to the vast ATSE network, including mentoring, professional development workshops, and 24-hour psychosocial wellbeing support.

ATSE CEO Kylie Walker said both women are worthy recipients having gone through a rigorous selection process which saw more than 250 scholarships awarded from over 1,500 applications received.

‘Partnerships to boost and tap into the skills we need for such important infrastructure are absolutely key,” Ms Walker said.

“Snowy Hydro has a long history as a champion of supporting diversity in STEM and this is the next important step. We are so excited to see this come to life through our scholars.”

News

SNOWY HYDRO’S 2025 COMMUNITY GRANTS PROGRAM NOW OPEN

03/03/2025

Community groups and not-for-profit organisations across Snowy Monaro, Snowy Valleys and Towong are invited to apply for funding to support local initiatives as part of Snowy Hydro’s Community Grants Program.

In total, Snowy Hydro has more than $200,000 of funding available to support this year’s program, with groups able to apply for grants of up to $10,000.

Snowy Hydro’s Head of Social Impact and Community Sarah Norris said the Community Grants Program aims to support projects and initiatives that address local needs, connect communities, and deliver long lasting benefits.

“Strong communities are built on ideas, passion, and local action. This program is about just that, by empowering people to bring their ideas to life and make a lasting impact where it matters most,” she said.

“If you have an idea that could make a difference, we encourage you to apply. This support could help you turn your vision into a reality.”

In 2024, the Snowy Hydro community review panel assessed more than 180 applications across two funding rounds, allocating $405,000 to 60 impactful projects.

Past recipients include CUC Snowy Monaro, which used its grant to deliver the ‘Speak Up’ program – helping young people develop leadership and public speaking skills- and Big Brothers Big Sisters in Tumut, which expanded its mentoring program to support more at-risk youth.

To be eligible, groups must be not-for-profit or hold an Australian Business Number (ABN), and operate within the Snowy Monaro, Snowy Valleys or Towong local government areas.

Applications are open until 11.55pm on Sunday 16 March, with results announced by the middle of the year.

For more details and to apply, visit snowyhydro.com.au/communitygrantsprogram/

The Snowy Hydro Community Grants Program was formalised in 2022, and since then has invested around $860,000 towards 142 local projects.

News

SNOWY HYDRO RELEASES 2024 SUSTAINABILITY REPORT

13/01/2025

Snowy Hydro has released its 2024 Sustainability Report, covering the progress the energy generator and retailer has made in areas such as environmental stewardship, social impact, and understanding and responding to its carbon emissions and climate risks.

Snowy Hydro CEO Dennis Barnes said the report reflects the company’s role in enabling Australia’s transition to renewable energy, while highlighting its progress and ambitions.

“At Snowy Hydro, we understand that sustainability goes beyond fulfilling our environmental commitments,” Mr Barnes said.

“It’s about supporting our people, driving better diversity outcomes and making a positive difference to the communities we serve.

“The 2024 report shows the progress we are making and achievements we are proud of. While we recognise there is still more to do, this report serves as our roadmap, keeping us accountable and focused on delivering even better outcomes for stakeholders and the community in the future,” Mr Barnes said.

Mr Barnes also acknowledged Snowy Hydro’s responsibility as custodian of the water that flows through the Snowy Scheme, highlighting its role in balancing electricity network reliability, with the irrigation needs of farmers and other water users.

Key sustainability achievements in the 2023/2024 financial year include:

Producing 3,937 GWh of renewable electricity from our hydro generation assets – enough energy to power around 600,000 homes for a year.
Growing our mass market retail brands business to 1.4 million customers, with a focus on delivering authentic, personal customer service.
Our retail brand Red Energy recognised with the Customer Satisfaction Award for the 14th year in a row
7,958 students benefitting from Snowy STEM Academy programs
Keeping our people safe, reflected in our low Total Recordable Incident Frequency Rate (TRIFR) score
Delivering five events of 8-hour peak water flows from Jindabyne reservoir to improve the health of the Snowy River ecosystem
Maintaining outstanding reliability across our generation assets, with our hydro generators starting successfully 99.7 per cent of the time, and gas 98.5 per cent of the time, underpinning our ability to contribute to stable electricity supply
$557,000 spent through our community giving programs
Increasing the proportion of women in senior leadership roles
$320,000 of funding for Murray River rehabilitation work to maintain waterflow and prevent erosion

Snowy Hydro is the third largest generator of electricity in Australia by capacity. We can generate 5,500 megawatts (MW) of electricity across eight hydroelectric power stations, three natural gas power stations, and four diesel power stations.

Snowy 2.0 and the Hunter Power Project are set to deliver 2,860MW of additional capacity. This significant boost to the network’s capacity will make a meaningful difference to energy supply reliability, particularly on hot days in summer.

When these fast-start generating assets come online, they will enable further wind and solar generation that can displace more than 33 million tonnes of CO₂-e per annum.

This carbon emissions displacement would represent a 28 percent reduction in the National Electricity Market emissions from 2022 levels, and approximately 13 percent of Australia’s 2030 total emissions reduction target.

To learn more about Snowy Hydro’s sustainability journey and access the 2024 report, visit https://www.snowyhydro.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Snowy-Hydro_2024-Sustainability-Report.pdf.

News

FIND OUT MORE – SNOWY HYDRO COMMUNITY RESEARCH UPDATE

14/11/2024

Findings from Snowy Hydro’s 2024 Community Insights research have now been published, with opportunities for locals to attend in-person information sessions to ask questions and provide feedback.

The research campaign conducted earlier in the year invited all community members across south-eastern NSW to provide their opinions and experiences related to Snowy Hydro operations and the Snowy 2.0 project.

Insights gathered from the survey will help shape Snowy Hydro’s approach to community engagement and commitment to supporting positive social outcomes, according to Chief Corporate Affairs Officer Scott MacKillop.

“We’re really grateful that people gave up their time to talk to us about how they see Snowy Hydro in the community and share their ideas,” he said.

“The research told us there is strong support for Snowy Hydro and the Snowy 2.0 project across the region.

“There was also great feedback around how Snowy Hydro can continue to evolve the way it engages with local communities, which we are using to inform our approach going forward.

“The community also made it clear that there is a strong expectation that Snowy Hydro continues to have a positive impact on the region, particularly in terms of the legacy Snowy 2.0 leaves for the region after construction.

“We look forward to talking with you at the information sessions so you can ask questions and find out more about the recommendations being developed by the Snowy Hydro team.”

The Snowy Hydro community information sessions being held throughout the Snowy Mountains and surrounding areas will give community members a chance to hear about the research findings, ask questions and give us their feedback.

The sessions will also include updates on regional water operations and Snowy 2.0 project construction progress, including plans for a fourth tunnel boring machine and milestones achieved at the Tantangara and Lobs Hole worksites.

The Snowy Hydro Community Insights survey was open to individuals aged 18 and older from the Snowy Monaro, Snowy Valleys, Towong, Bega Valley and surrounding local government areas. A series of focus groups, one-on-one meetings, phone surveys and community pop-up stalls supported the online survey.

Research findings will be available on the Snowy Hydro website and at the community information sessions. Details below:

LOCATION	DATE	TIME
Talbingo Country Club	18 November	6pm – 7.30pm
Tumut Valmar Support Services	19 November	6pm – 7.30pm
Jindabyne Bowling Club	21 November	6pm – 7.30pm
Adaminaby School of Arts Hall	26 November	6pm – 7.30pm
Cooma Ex-Services Club	27 November	6pm – 7.30pm
Corryong Events Centre	2 December	6pm – 7.30pm
Khancoban Community Hall	3 December	5pm – 6.30pm
Bega Bowling Club	9 December	6pm – 7.30pm
Merimbula Twyford Hall	10 December	6pm – 7.30pm

News

FORMER SNOWY SCHEME WORKERS VISIT SNOWY 2.0

01/11/2024

They came together from all corners of the world to build the iconic Snowy Scheme and decades later, a visit to the Snowy 2.0 project has provided former workers with an eye-opening snapshot of Australia’s renewable energy future.

About 60 members of the Snowy Scheme workforce continued 75th anniversary celebrations with a tour of the main Snowy 2.0 construction worksite at Lobs Hole and lunch with current workers.

Snowy Hydro’s 2,200 megawatt pumped hydro mega project, which is expanding the Snowy Scheme generating capacity by more than 50% and delivering 160 hours of energy storage, made an impression on the tour group.

Former Chief Operating Officer Ken Lister, described the engineering on display as “truly world class” and was matched by the competence, courage and collaboration of the Snowy 2.0 workforce.

“It is obvious that the people of Snowy 2.0 are just as committed to delivering a project to ‘keep the lights on’ as the former workers were in ‘turning the waters westward’,” Ken said.

Tumut resident Ray Holloway, who worked as a fitter’s assistant on the Tumut 3 Power Station build, said the scale of Snowy 2.0 was ‘amazing’.

“The whole day was magnificent and to see the project like that was a memorable experience. It’s a lot bigger than I thought it was,” Ray said.

Snowy 2.0 Project Director, Snowy Hydro’s Dave Evans, said it was a privilege to host former Scheme workers onsite.

“We were incredibly proud to show them Snowy 2.0 and to acknowledge their contribution to this project – without them, and the mighty Snowy Mountains Scheme, we wouldn’t be here today,” Dave said. “We stand on the shoulders of those who came before us.

“Together, the Snowy Scheme and Snowy 2.0 will be critically important to underpin Australia’s transition to renewable energy.”

The Lobs Hole site tour followed a 75 years of the Snowy Scheme Former Worker Reunion event in Cooma and a range of community-led initiatives including an open day at the Snowy Scheme Museum in Adaminaby.

The final Snowy Hydro initiative for the 75th anniversary is the community open day at Tumut 3 Power Station on Saturday, 2 November. A record number of registrations were received, with registrations for this event now closed.

News

SNOWY HYDRO CONTINUES INVESTMENT IN LOCAL COMMUNITIES

08/10/2024

Snowy Hydro has kicked off round two of its 2024 Community Grants Program, with more than $200,000 of funding available to help local community groups bring their ideas to life.

With grants of up to $10,000 each, the program aims to support community-led initiatives that encourage growth and resilience in regional communities. Whether related to education, health, regional capacity building, or the environment, this funding is about creating lasting, positive change.

Grants are available for community-led initiatives that align with Snowy Hydro’s community commitment pillars of education and development, health and wellbeing, regional capacity building and environment.

Sarah Norris, Snowy Hydro’s Social Impact and Engagement Manager, said the program is about helping communities thrive, “We believe in the future of our communities and are proud to support projects that create real opportunities and make a difference.

“The passion and creativity we’ve seen from past recipients have been truly inspiring, from grassroots initiatives that bring people together, to innovative programs that address regional challenges.

“It’s more than just funding. It’s about helping people turn their ideas into reality and contributing to a vibrant, resilient future for our region. We’re thrilled to continue this journey with a new round of applicants and can’t wait to see what ideas come through.”

Earlier this year, the first round saw over 80 applications, with $204,000 in funding for 30 worthy projects. From small grassroots efforts to larger initiatives, the Snowy Hydro Community Grants Program is making a real impact across the Snowy Mountains region.

To be eligible, groups must operate within the Snowy Monaro, Snowy Valleys, or Towong areas. They must be a non-profit group or organisation that holds an Australian Business Number (ABN) and can show how their project will address community needs, deliver lasting benefits, and build stronger connections.

Applications are open until 20 October 2024, with results announced in late November. For more details and to apply, visit the Snowy Hydro website and start making a difference today!

All applications must be submitted online via the online form, found on the Snowy Hydro website.
For more information about Snowy Hydro’s Community Grants Program visit: https://www.snowyhydro.com.au/communitygrantsprogram/

News

NEW PUBLIC EV CHARGING STATIONS SET TO BOOST TOURISM

02/10/2024

The Snowy Valleys region is set to become an even better destination for electric vehicle (EV) owners with the installation of ten public EV charging stations. Snowy Hydro is supporting Snowy Valleys Council to install and maintain the new charging stations, which will be strategically located in Adelong, Khancoban, Talbingo, Tumbarumba and Tumut.
“Installing these EV chargers is a significant step forward in making the Snowy Valleys a welcoming destination for electric vehicle owners,” said Snowy Valleys Council’s Interim General Manager Steven Pinnuck.
“We are pleased to be working together with Snowy Hydro leveraging our combined resources and expertise to deliver critical infrastructure that will benefit our residents and visitors alike,” said Mr Pinnuck.
Snowy Hydro CEO Dennis Barnes said supporting the EV charging stations initiative with Snowy Valleys Council strengthened the company’s ongoing commitment to local communities and the regional economy.
“Partnering with Snowy Valleys Council to install these EV charging stations is a tangible way we can contribute to a cleaner future. By supporting the expansion of EV infrastructure, we’re not only enhancing the convenience for electric vehicle owners but also fostering the region’s appeal as a destination for both residents and visitors.
“As a company we are committed to sustainable growth in the communities where we operate. The new charging stations will play a crucial role in the region’s transition to sustainable transport, ensuring that the Snowy Valleys region remains at the forefront of the shift towards a low-carbon future.”
The new charging infrastructure will be installed on Council managed land in Tumut – RHB Carpark, Adelong – Golden Gully Park, Talbingo – Shopping Centre Carpark, Tumbarumba – Union Lane Carpark, and Khancoban – Shopping Centre Carpark. Providing convenient, safe, and reliable access to EV charging in public spaces, each site will have two 22kw electric vehicle dual port chargers and four dedicated parking spots.
Whilst charging EV drivers can stretch their legs, enjoy lunch and visit each town’s variety of shops and attractions. Demand for electric vehicles is increasing as people embrace emerging technologies and cleaner energy options and under the NSW Electric Vehicle Strategy (2021), electric vehicle sales are expected to increase to 52% by 2030–31.
This initiative was made possible by the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment, and Water’s EV Destination Charging Grants – Round 2.
The Drive Electric NSW EV destination charging grants are a $20 million investment to rollout widespread, public EV charging infrastructure at visitor destinations across regional NSW.
Installation of the Snowy Valleys charging stations will be undertaken in the coming months.

News

COMMUNITY COMES TOGETHER TO CELEBRATE 75 YEARS OF THE SNOWY SCHEME

11/09/2024

Communities in the Snowy Mountains will celebrate 75 years of the Snowy Scheme with a range of events and initiatives supported by $83,000 in funding from Snowy Hydro.

Successful 75th Anniversary Community Grants Fund applicants will receive amounts up to $5,000 to celebrate the shared milestone in a way that is meaningful to them. Snowy Hydro’s investment in local communities through the special community grants fund will support grassroots, community-led projects.

Some of the creative ways local community groups will be celebrating include a cultural connection program recognising the spirit of multiculturalism and community-building, the installation of a large-scale painted mural, an audio-visual project sharing the unique stories of the Snowy Scheme, an exhibition of historic machinery used during the Scheme construction and educational activities with preschool children.

Snowy Hydro Manager Social Impact and Engagement Sarah Norris said Snowy Hydro is committed to acknowledging the 75th-anniversary milestone and sharing the celebrations with the local communities of the Snowy Mountains.

“We understand the community’s strong connection to the Snowy Scheme, especially for those whose family members worked on its construction. The successful initiatives selected for grant funding reflect this sentiment. We believe these community-led initiatives will deeply resonate with those who appreciate the immense contribution the Scheme has made and continues to make to Australia,” Ms Norris said.

The Snowy Hydro supported initiatives reflect the lasting impact of the Snowy Scheme on the local region. By supporting these community-led endeavours, we recognise the importance of the region’s ongoing connection to our proud history.

Round 2 of Snowy Hydro’s 2024 Community Grants Program will open on 23 September at 9am.

For more information about Snowy Hydro’s 75th anniversary initiatives, please visit www.snowyhydro.com.au/75years

News

SNOWY HYDRO JOINS FORCES WITH ATSE TO BOOST STEM GENDER DIVERSITY

21/08/2024

Women and non-binary people pursuing dreams of a STEM career will have an opportunity for game-changing support, thanks to a partnership between Snowy Hydro and the Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering (ATSE).

To commemorate the 75th anniversary of the iconic Snowy Scheme, Snowy Hydro will offer financial scholarships with wrap-around assistance to two undergraduates. The two STEM scholars will be able to study STEM disciplines at the university of their choice, as well as the opportunity for mentoring and professional development designed to help them find a job and thrive.

Snowy Hydro CEO Dennis Barnes said the scholarships were about providing additional support to people who might otherwise experience barriers to a career in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM).

“The Snowy Scheme is synonymous with scientific and engineering excellence and that’s continuing with the development of the Snowy 2.0 mega project,” Mr Barnes said.

“Providing this support to kick-start two STEM careers is a meaningful way to mark 75 years of the Snowy Scheme and make an important contribution to the skills that will help make the next 75 years possible.

“There’s also an important diversity consideration here. The energy sector is typically male dominated and there’s so much that can be gained by women and gender-diverse people choosing STEM disciplines.

“I’d love to see the people who are awarded the Snowy Hydro 75th Anniversary scholarships contributing to Australia’s transition to renewable energy.”

The scholarships will be offered through ATSE’s Elevate program. Snowy Hydro will fund two scholars for three years, with each scholar receiving $30,000 over the period. This scholarships will not only support the scholars financially but also grant them access to the vast ATSE network, including mentoring, professional development workshops, and 24-hour psychosocial wellbeing support.

Mr Barnes said one of the reasons Snowy Hydro is partnering with ATSE is because a significant number of Elevate program scholarship recipients are from regional areas.

“When you live in a regional area, there are far more barriers to studying, particularly, STEM, which often require technology and resources that are only available in cities. Relocating to study creates an additional financial burden,” Mr Barnes said.

“Knowing the ATSE and the Elevate program have a substantial regional footprint, and that our scholarships might help break down those barriers, is important to us.”

“Boosting gender diversity in STEM is not just a matter of equity but a critical driver for innovation and sustainability.” said ATSE CEO, Kylie Walker.

“Women bring diverse perspectives and approaches to problem-solving, which are essential in tackling the complex challenges of transitioning to renewable energy and achieving net-zero targets.

“Partnerships with industry leaders like Snowy Hydro are vital to this mission, as they provide the career opportunities and real-world expertise needed to empower women and gender-diverse people in STEM and drive meaningful progress in these fields.”

Snowy Hydro and ATSE are committed to creating a lasting impact by supporting the next generation of STEM professionals, particularly those from underrepresented groups. This partnership highlights how industry collaboration can drive meaningful change and contribute to a diverse and inclusive STEM industry.

Applications for the Elevate program have been open since May and will close 30 August. Assessment will take place in September and October. The announcement of the selected scholars will occur in November, with scholarships commencing in January 2025.

For more information about the Elevate program, visit https://www.atse.org.au/elevate.

About ATSE

ATSE is an independent, non-government organisation and charity, ATSE is led by a diverse Fellowship of over 900 of Australia’s leading applied scientists, technologists and engineers.

Their Elevate program provides scholarships, networking opportunities, mentoring, and wellbeing support to scholars during their university studies. The Elevate program will award up to 500 undergraduate and postgraduate scholarships to women and non-binary people in STEM.

The Elevate scholarships program provides:

• Financial support
• Access to events and networking
• Professional development
• Mentoring
• Wellbeing support during scholars’ university studies

About Snowy Hydro

Snowy Hydro is a dynamic integrated energy company at the forefront of the renewable energy transition and decarbonisation of the NEM. In addition to its commitment to clean energy, Snowy Hydro is also a strong advocate for diversity and inclusion, particularly in supporting opportunities for women in STEM. Through its Snowy STEM Academy, development and mentorship programs, Rise Women and a focus on creating an inclusive workplace culture, Snowy Hydro is dedicated to fostering the next generation of female leaders who will shape the future of renewable energy and contribute to the ongoing transformation of the NEM.