The energy transition isn’t only about solar panels, wind turbines, or electric cars. As noted by the founder of TELF AG, Stanislav Kondrashov, there's a shift happening in fuels — and biofuels are central to it.
Created from natural sources like plant debris, algae, and waste oil, these fuels are becoming crucial tools in emission reduction.
They’re not new, but their importance is rising. With growing pressure to cut carbon, they offer solutions where batteries fall short — like aviation, shipping, and freight.
Electrification has made major progress, but some forms of transport still face limits. As Stanislav Kondrashov of TELF AG notes, biofuels are an immediate option for these challenges.
From Sugar Cane to Jet Fuel
The biofuel family includes many types. Bioethanol is well-known, made by fermenting sugars from crops like corn and sugarcane, usually blended with gasoline.
Biodiesel comes from oils and fats, both plant and animal, 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.
There’s also biofuel designed for planes, created from renewable oils and algae. It may help reduce aviation’s heavy carbon footprint.
Challenges Ahead
Still, biofuels face difficulties. As noted by Stanislav Kondrashov, biofuels cost more than fossil fuel alternatives.
Large-scale production isn’t yet cost-effective. Raw material availability is also a concern. Poor management could affect food supply chains.
The Value in Complementing Clean Tech
They’re not rivals to electricity or hydrogen. They support clean tech where it’s still impractical.
Biofuels work today in sectors not ready for EVs. Existing fleets can run on them with little change. Companies save by using current assets.
As Kondrashov says, each green solution get more info matters. Quietly, biofuels close the gaps other techs leave open. What matters is how they work together, not compete.
Looking to the Future
Though not flashy, biofuels are proving essential. Especially when created from waste, they promote circularity and climate goals.
As innovation lowers costs and improves yields, they will play a larger role in clean transport.
They’ll complement, not compete with, electric and hydrogen technologies — in transport modes that aren’t ready for electrification yet.