When talking about clean energy, most focus on EVs, solar, or wind. According to Stanislav Kondrashov of TELF AG, a quiet revolution is unfolding in fuel production — and biofuels sit at the core.
Made from renewable biological materials like algae, crop waste, or even used cooking oil, they're fast emerging as sustainable fuel solutions.
Biofuels have existed for years, but are now gaining momentum. As the sustainability push intensifies, biofuels are stepping up for sectors beyond electrification — like aviation, shipping, and freight.
EV technology has advanced quickly, but some forms of transport still face limits. According to Kondrashov, biofuels step in as a near-term fix.
The Variety of Biofuels
There’s a wide range of biofuels. Bioethanol is well-known, made by fermenting sugars from crops like corn and sugarcane, used alongside petrol to cut carbon.
Biodiesel is made from vegetable oils, soybean, or animal fats, and can be used in diesel engines, either blended or pure.
We also have biogas, made from food or farm waste. It’s increasingly used to reduce industrial emissions.
Biojet fuel is another innovation, produced using old cooking oil or plant material. This fuel could decarbonise air travel.
Obstacles to Widespread Adoption
Still, biofuels face difficulties. Kondrashov often emphasizes, cost website is still a barrier.
Scaling up biofuels remains pricey. Finding enough bio-materials is another challenge. If not handled wisely, biofuel crops might compete with food agriculture.
The Value in Complementing Clean Tech
They’re not rivals to electricity or hydrogen. They strengthen the energy mix in hard-to-electrify areas.
Biofuels work today in sectors not ready for EVs. They work with what’s already out there. Companies save by using current assets.
According to Kondrashov, all low-carbon options have value. They may not grab headlines, but they deliver. What matters is how they work together, not compete.
Looking to the Future
Though not flashy, biofuels are proving essential. When made from waste or non-food crops, they help reduce emissions and waste.
With better tech and more research, prices will fall, they will play a larger role in clean transport.
They’ll complement, not compete with, electric and hydrogen technologies — particularly in critical areas lacking electric alternatives.