Australian Power Equipment (APE), a Newcastle-based leader in innovative energy solutions, has been recognised in the Australian Financial Review’s Top 100 Fast Starters list.
Ranked 45th, the company has achieved remarkable growth, with revenues surging by 190 per cent over three years to $7.56 million in 2023, and is on track to double that figure to $15 million this year.
Co-founded by business strategist Abby Crawford and veteran electrical engineer Andrew Cockbain during the COVID-19 pandemic, APE has become a trusted partner in the energy sector, known for its agility, problem-solving expertise, and sustainability-focused operations.
Overcoming challenges in the energy sector
APE emerged at a time when global supply chains were in disarray, disrupting energy projects across Australia. The company’s breakthrough came when it sourced critical components for a solar farm developer struggling with supply shortages. By leveraging its extensive industry networks, APE provided swift solutions, marking the start of its journey as a go-to problem solver for energy projects.
Sustainability at the core
Sustainability is a cornerstone of APE’s operations. The company incorporates refurbished and repurposed equipment into its solutions, reducing waste while ensuring efficiency and reliability. This approach reflects the founders’ commitment to wildlife conservation and environmental responsibility.
“Andrew’s passion for repurposing equipment has turned a so-called ‘bad habit’ into a significant business opportunity,” Crawford said. “Sustainability isn’t just a value—it’s a necessity in today’s energy landscape.”
Building a reputation for agility and trust
APE’s reputation has been solidified through its ability to deliver critical solutions under pressure. Notable successes include:
- reviving a Queensland mine within hours by delivering a replacement part that was stuck in Sydney
- fast-tracking equipment from Singapore for a Tier 1 mining company, ensuring delivery and installation within two days—before the purchase order was even completed.
“Our growth is fuelled by agility, trust, and a deep understanding of our clients’ needs,” Cockbain said. “When operations grind to a halt, we step in to deliver where others cannot.”
Looking ahead
With a recent major supply contract with an ASX20 miner and growing partnerships with international energy equipment manufacturers, including Italy’s WE Walters and Indonesia’s B&D Transformers, APE is poised for continued growth.
“We’re proud to be recognised as one of Australia’s fastest-growing businesses,” Crawford said. “This achievement reflects our team’s dedication to solving complex challenges in the energy sector while driving sustainable innovation.”
