Repos Energy: Revolutionizing Diesel Supply and Emissions with Doorstep Delivery

In the labyrinth of the industrial area near Pune’s Chakan, Chetan Walunj, entering his family’s fuel retailing business, noticed a peculiar incongruity. In close proximity to their outlet, Mercedes Benz was expanding its factory, yet diesel was transported in makeshift containers, undermining safety. This realization sparked an idea – why not supply diesel directly to industrial clients on-site? This seemingly simple notion set the stage for Repos Energy, a transformative venture that aimed not only to streamline fuel supply but also to significantly reduce emissions.

However, venturing into doorstep diesel delivery was no easy feat. Existing legislation mandated fuel sales only through certified retail outlets, posing a formidable regulatory hurdle. Undeterred, Chetan and his wife, Aditi Bhosale Walunj, co-founders of Repos Energy, embarked on a journey to navigate this complex terrain. They envisioned a business model that not only addressed industrial fuel needs efficiently but also had substantial environmental benefits.

The first challenge was securing legislative approval. Numerous trips to Delhi, including meetings with Dharmendra Pradhan, the cabinet minister for petroleum & natural gas and steel, proved fruitful. Pradhan recognized the merit in Repos Energy’s proposal and pledged to advocate for the necessary legislative amendments.

In 2017, Repos Energy was registered, marking the beginning of a pioneering initiative. The Walunjes sought mentors and funding to create a comprehensive solution for their partners. Their pursuit led them to Ratan Tata, an iconic figure in the business world. Through determination and a bit of audacity, they secured a meeting with Tata, who, intrigued by the lack of innovation in the fuel retailing industry, not only provided invaluable advice but also undisclosed funding.

Repos Energy strategically collaborated with Tata Motors to manufacture and market bowsers, specialized trucks equipped with fuel-dispensing units. Priced at ₹30 lakh, these bowsers can dispense 5,000 litres of diesel per day. Maintaining a commitment to creating employment opportunities, Repos awarded contracts for operating bowsers to startups registered with the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT).

One such entrepreneur, Tharanath Aswathanarayana, partnered with Repos Energy to address a genuine pain point in the industry. With his single bowser operating in Bengaluru, Aswathanarayana efficiently caters to the diesel needs of various sectors, earning a commission of ₹2.16 per litre. Repos facilitated his startup registration with DPIIT and provided an app to aggregate fuel demand in his operating zone.

In terms of funding, Repos Energy secured ₹50 crore from their family, ₹15 crore as debt from ICICI Bank, and undisclosed funding from Ratan Tata. In the fiscal year ending March 2021, the company reported revenue of ₹75 crore, a substantial increase from ₹25 crore in the previous fiscal year. Looking ahead, Repos Energy aims to raise funds for expansion, with a vision to reach 320 cities and deploy 700 to 800 bowsers nationwide.

Repos Energy stands at the intersection of innovation, environmental consciousness, and industrial efficiency, reshaping the landscape of fuel supply with its doorstep delivery model. As they embark on the next phase of growth, Chetan and Aditi Bhosale Walunj remain steadfast in their commitment to making fuel accessibility seamless and sustainable across the country.