Australia’s ambitious Snowy 2.0 pumped hydro energy project is facing significant challenges, according to a new report from the national auditor. The audit revealed substantial cost pressures and identified failures in governance and management as key impediments to the $12 billion project’s progress. These issues are contributing to delays and increasing the risk of further budget overruns. The auditor’s report did not specify the extent of the cost pressures, but characterized them as “diabolic.” Snowy 2.0 aims to add 350,000 homes worth of renewable energy storage capacity to the national grid, but the findings raise concerns about the project’s viability and delivery timeline. Authorities are now under pressure to address the identified shortcomings and regain control of the project.