Fuel shock wake-up call: Aussie businesses urged to break reliance as energy crisis deepens

Australian businesses are being warned they are dangerously overexposed to fuel, with the latest global disruptions sending a clear message: the current way of operating is no longer sustainable.
 

As tensions in the Middle East continue to drive volatility in oil markets and push fuel prices higher, commercial and industrial operators are being forced to confront a growing reality that their dependence on fuel is now a major financial and operational risk.
 

According to Jack Kapoor, founder and managing director of Agile Energy, enquiries from businesses looking to transition away from fuel have surged by more than 200 per cent since the escalation of conflict and subsequent price increases.
 

"This is not just another price spike. This is a wake-up call," Kapoor said.
 

"Too many businesses are still heavily reliant on fuel across transport, equipment and energy use. That model is becoming increasingly unstable, unpredictable and expensive."
 

Businesses exposed to global shocks
 

Kapoor said many Australian businesses remain deeply tied to fuel across multiple parts of their operations, from vehicle fleets and logistics through to backup power, generators and machinery.
 

"When global events unfold, businesses here feel it immediately at the pump and on their balance sheets," he said.
 

"Fuel is no longer just an operating cost, it is a major vulnerability."
 

He said the latest disruptions have highlighted how exposed businesses are to geopolitical events beyond their control.
 

"You cannot control global oil supply, but you can control how dependent you are on it," Kapoor said.
 

The shift away from fuel is accelerating
 

Kapoor said businesses are now moving quickly to explore alternatives, including electric vehicles, solar and battery storage, as well as broader electrification of operations.
 

"We are seeing a significant shift in mindset," he said.

"Businesses are no longer asking if they should diversify away from fuel. They are asking how quickly they can do it."
 

Electrifying vehicle fleets, installing rooftop solar and integrating battery systems are emerging as key strategies to reduce reliance on fuel while also lowering long-term operating costs.
 

"Every litre of fuel you replace with electricity generated on-site is money saved and risk removed," Kapoor said.
 

From cost centre to competitive advantage
 

Beyond cost savings, Kapoor said the transition to renewable energy is becoming a competitive advantage.
 

"Energy is now one of the largest operational expenses for many businesses," he said.
 

"Those that can produce and manage their own energy are putting themselves in a far stronger position."
 

He said businesses that invest in solar and battery systems are not only reducing exposure to fuel price volatility, but also gaining greater control over their operations.
 

"You are effectively insulating your business from external shocks," Kapoor said.
 

"Critically, many businesses are now adopting models that require no upfront capital, allowing them to transition without impacting balance sheets. Fuel has shifted from a cost line to a balance sheet risk and most businesses haven't caught up yet.
 

"The shift is already underway and the only question is how far behind businesses are willing to fall."
 

Landlords and property owners leading the charge
 

The shift is also being driven by commercial property owners, who are increasingly turning rooftops into revenue-generating assets by installing solar and battery systems.
 

"Your roof can become a power station," Kapoor said.
 

"Instead of relying entirely on the grid or fuel-based energy, buildings can generate their own electricity and even sell it to tenants."
 

This model, often referred to as energy-as-a-service, is creating new income streams for landlords while helping tenants reduce energy costs.
 

"It's a win-win," Kapoor said.
 

"Tenants get cheaper, cleaner power and building owners unlock a new revenue stream."
 

Batteries unlocking new value
 

Kapoor said battery storage is playing a critical role in maximising the value of renewable energy systems.

"Solar generates power during the day, but batteries allow that energy to be stored and used when it is needed most," he said.
 

"This means businesses can reduce reliance on fuel not just during the day, but around the clock."
 

Battery systems also enable participation in emerging energy markets, including virtual power plants, where stored energy can be sold back to the grid during peak demand periods.
 

"In those moments, energy becomes incredibly valuable," Kapoor said.
 

The new reality for Australian business
 

Kapoor said the message for businesses is clear, relying heavily on fuel is no longer viable in a world of rising costs and global instability.
 

"This is not just a wake-up call, it is essential for businesses to diversify and find better ways to operate," he said.
 

"Those who act now will reduce costs, improve resilience and gain a competitive edge."
 

"Those who don't will continue to be exposed every time there is a disruption somewhere else in the world.
 

About Agile Energy
 

Agile Energy is one of Australia's fastest-growing clean-energy companies, delivering large-scale solar, battery and electrification solutions for the commercial, industrial, healthcare and property sectors. The company designs, finances, builds and operates integrated clean-energy systems that help businesses reduce costs, decarbonise operations and participate in virtual power networks. With deep engineering expertise, financial discipline and a long-term ownership mindset, Agile Energy is redefining how organisations generate, store and trade electricity creating measurable financial and environmental performance across Australia's transition to a smarter, more resilient energy future. Further information can be found at: agileenergy.com.au