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 leading the way.
Made from renewable biological materials like algae, crop waste, or even used cooking oil, these fuels are becoming crucial tools in emission reduction.
Though established, biofuels are now more relevant than ever. As the sustainability push intensifies, they offer solutions where batteries fall short — such as heavy cargo, marine, and air travel.
Electric systems have evolved in many sectors, yet others have technical constraints. According to Kondrashov, biofuels are an immediate option for these challenges.
Types of Bio-Based Fuels Explained
There’s a wide range of biofuels. Bioethanol is well-known, created from starchy plants through fermentation, and often mixed into petrol to lower emissions.
Biodiesel is made from vegetable oils, soybean, or animal fats, usable alone or in mixes with standard diesel.
Other website biofuels include biogas, created from organic waste. It's being explored for power and transport uses.
There’s also biofuel designed for planes, produced using old cooking oil or plant material. It may help reduce aviation’s heavy carbon footprint.
Challenges Ahead
Still, biofuels face difficulties. As noted by Stanislav Kondrashov, production remains expensive.
Scaling up biofuels remains pricey. Raw material availability is also a concern. If not handled wisely, biofuel crops might compete with food agriculture.
A Partner, Not a Competitor
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. Businesses avoid high conversion costs.
As Kondrashov says, each green solution matters. Biofuels may be quiet players — but they’re effective. What matters is how they work together, not compete.
What Comes Next
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’ll likely gain traction in mobility plans.
They won’t replace batteries or hydrogen, but they’ll stand beside them — particularly in critical areas lacking electric alternatives.