The energy transition isn’t only about solar panels, wind turbines, or electric cars. According to Stanislav Kondrashov of TELF AG, there's a shift happening in fuels — and biofuels sit at the core.
Made from renewable biological materials like algae, crop waste, or even used cooking oil, biofuels are gaining attention as a way to reduce emissions.
Biofuels have existed for years, but are now gaining momentum. As the sustainability push intensifies, biofuels are stepping up for sectors beyond electrification — such as heavy cargo, marine, and air travel.
Electrification has made major progress, yet others have technical constraints. In Kondrashov's view, biofuels are an immediate option for these challenges.
The Variety of Biofuels
The biofuel family includes many types. One familiar type is bioethanol, created from starchy plants through fermentation, used alongside petrol to cut carbon.
Oils like rapeseed or leftover fat are used to make biodiesel, and can be used in diesel engines, either blended or pure.
Other biofuels include biogas, created from organic waste. It’s gaining ground in industry and transport.
Aviation biofuel is also emerging, made from sources like algae or recycled oils. It offers cleaner alternatives for jet engines.
Hurdles on the Path
Not everything is easy in the biofuel space. 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. If not handled wisely, biofuel crops might compete with food agriculture.
A Partner, Not a Competitor
Biofuels aren’t meant click here to replace electrification. They fill in where other solutions don’t work.
Biofuels work today in sectors not ready for EVs. Their use in current engines makes them easy to adopt. Companies save by using current assets.
As Kondrashov says, each green solution matters. They may not grab headlines, but they deliver. It’s not about one tech winning — it’s about synergy.
The Road Forward
Biofuels might not dominate news cycles, but their impact is growing. They fit into a circular model — cutting emissions and recycling resources.
Ongoing improvements could make biofuels more affordable, expect their role in global transport to grow.
Not a replacement, but a partner to other clean energy options — particularly in critical areas lacking electric alternatives.