Snowy Hydro Board Gets a New Chair

A worker takes a look at the cutter head of Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) Kirsten at the Snowy Hydro Scheme in Talbingo, Australia, on Dec. 3, 2021. AAP Image/Lukas Coch

The Albanese government has appointed James Cain as the new chair and non-executive director of Snowy Hydro, effective from March 2025.

With three decades of experience in property, infrastructure, and major capital works, Cain’s expertise is expected to play a pivotal role in advancing Snowy Hydro’s ongoing projects, particularly the Snowy 2.0 pumped-hydro expansion.

The Snowy 2.0 project, which aims to link the Tantangara and Talbingo dams through a 27-kilometre underground tunnel, is a key part of Australia’s transition to renewable energy.

This expansion will provide vital renewable energy storage, capable of powering three million homes each week.

The Snowy Scheme, at the heart of Kosciuszko National Park, also covers extensive land, with Snowy Hydro managing over 6,400 hectares of parkland and 24,000 hectares of freehold land.

Snowy Hydro’s Role in Renewable Energy Future

Minister for Finance Katy Gallagher expressed confidence in Cain’s ability to lead Snowy Hydro through the complexities of the Snowy 2.0 project, widely regarded as one of the most difficult engineering undertakings in the world.

“We are thrilled to have someone of Mr. Cain’s experience on board as it moves closer to completion,” Gallagher said.

She also acknowledged the contribution of outgoing Chair David Knox, particularly his leadership during the Snowy 2.0 reset.

As per his LinkedIn profile, Cain brings 12 years of experience at Lend Lease, where he served as general manager for Victoria, Tasmania, and South Australia.

He was also executive director of Major Projects Victoria and founded M21 Advisory, a management consultant company for commercial property and infrastructure.

Cain currently holds directorships at Mirvac and Inland Rail, and has held senior roles with super fund property investor ISPT, the Victorian Port Corporation, and the Port of Melbourne Corporation.

Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen also welcomed Cain’s appointment. He noted the significance of the Snowy 2.0 project in powering Australia’s renewable future.

“After inheriting a decade of Coalition chaos and hidden delays on Snowy 2.0, the Albanese Government is delivering an energy system Australians deserve,” Bowen said.

The Political Backdrop to Snowy 2.0

The Snowy Mountains Scheme has long been a point of political contention.

In 2019, then-Energy Minister Angus Taylor claimed credit for the scheme, stating, “it is important to note that the Snowy Scheme is just another incredible achievement of Liberal government.”

However, Albanese, the current prime minister and then opposition leader dismissed the claim saying, “Your [Liberal] lot opposed it.”

Despite the political disputes, both sides agree on the importance of Snowy 2.0 in Australia’s energy future.