Snowy 2.0 - TBM #4 Marica Adit Portal
- $39 million
- Future Generation Joint Venture
- Marica, Kosciuszko National Park, NSW
- Construct only
Overview
Snowy Hydro Limited acquired a fourth tunnel boring machine (TBM) in late 2024 to support delivery of the Snowy 2.0 project.
The additional TBM is being deployed to tunnel through part of the 17km connection between Tantangara Reservoir and the underground power station. The Snowy 2.0 project will increase generation capacity by up to 2,000MW and provide approximately 350,000MWh of energy storage, reinforcing the Snowy Scheme’s role in the National Electricity Market.
Leed was engaged by Future Generation Joint Venture to prepare a new tunnel portal at Marica for the 137 tonne TBM. The works included clearing and grubbing, bulk earthworks, ERSED controls, concrete works for the launch cradle and associated ancillary structures.
Scope
The enabling works for the Marica Adit portal and associated infrastructure included:
- 123,000m² of clearing and grubbing
- installation of erosion and sediment controls
- construction of three sediment basins
- 3.5km of diversion drains
- 366,000m³ of bulk earthworks
- detailed excavation of the TBM cradle
- 62,305m² of pavement construction
- approximately 30,000m² of slope stabilisation including installation of ground support, including rock anchors, shotcrete and erosion control matting
- 6,000m³ of concrete structures
- excavation and installation of underground utilities
Innovation
The project required coordination with ongoing works within the Snowy 2.0 construction area.
Leed worked with Future Generation Joint Venture to plan interfaces between work packages, enabling activities to progress alongside other construction works on site.
Delivery was undertaken using both day and night shifts, with operations running continuously on a 24/7 basis.
Outcomes
The enabling works supported construction and launch of the fourth TBM from the Marica Adit portal, allowing excavation of a section of the Headrace Tunnel to commence
