Energy always failing in upset, dire, dire upset (7)

I believe the answer is:

disrupt

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'upset' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)

I don't understand how the remainder of the clue works.

(Other definitions for disrupt that I've seen before include "Disturb" , "Break up" , "Throw into disorder" , "Interrupt and spoil" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.

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