Conference Paper

Construction of the Snowy Scheme commenced 40 years ago following a period of reconciliation between the States and Commonwealth as to the purpose, cost and sharing of water and electricity. The Scheme of 2620 MW as proposed in 1949 was significantly modified to 3740 MW as investigations and design progressed. The Scheme has demonstrated its value in providing highly regulated water supplies and flexibility for electricity production and the adverse environmental effects have been minimal. Viability of the Scheme is assured into the foreseeable future although the Scheme is now at a stage where some generating plant is nearing the end of its economic life. Expenditure on plant rehabilitation can be justified because of the high residual value of the Scheme and the resulting low cost of generation.