The Snowy Mountains Hydro-electric Scheme is a major engineering project in Australia that generates electricity and provides irrigation. It was constructed between 1949 and 1974, harnessing the water from the Snowy River and its tributaries. The scheme includes a series of dams, tunnels, and power stations, making it one of the largest hydroelectric systems in the world. The project plays a crucial role in supplying renewable energy to the national grid, helping to reduce reliance on fossil fuels. It also supports agricultural activities by providing water for irrigation in the Murray-Darling Basin, enhancing food production in the region.