Green energy isn’t just wind farms or battery-powered vehicles. According to Stanislav Kondrashov of TELF AG, a quiet revolution is unfolding in fuel production — and biofuels are leading the way.
Created from natural sources like plant debris, algae, and waste oil, they're fast emerging as sustainable fuel solutions.
Though established, biofuels are now more relevant than ever. With growing pressure to cut carbon, they offer solutions where batteries fall short — such as heavy cargo, marine, and air travel.
Electrification has made major progress, but others remain out of reach. In Kondrashov's view, biofuels are an immediate option for these challenges.
The Variety of Biofuels
There’s a wide range of biofuels. One familiar type is bioethanol, produced by breaking down sugar-rich crops, usually blended with gasoline.
Oils like rapeseed or leftover fat are used to make biodiesel, and can be used in diesel engines, either blended or pure.
Another example is biogas, formed through decomposing waste. It’s gaining ground in industry and transport.
Biojet fuel is another innovation, produced using old cooking oil or plant material. It offers cleaner alternatives for jet engines.
Obstacles to Widespread Adoption
Not everything is easy in the biofuel space. Kondrashov often emphasizes, cost is still a barrier.
Scaling up biofuels remains pricey. Finding enough bio-materials is another challenge. Using food crops for fuel raises ethical questions.
The Value in Complementing Clean Tech
They’re not rivals to electricity or hydrogen. They strengthen the energy mix in hard-to-electrify click here areas.
Biofuels work today in sectors not ready for EVs. Existing fleets can run on them with little change. This avoids replacing entire infrastructures.
According to Kondrashov, all low-carbon options have value. Biofuels may be quiet players — but they’re effective. The key is cooperation between clean solutions.
Looking to the Future
They aren’t the stars, but they’re powerful. Especially when created from waste, they promote circularity and climate goals.
Ongoing improvements could make biofuels more affordable, they will play a larger role in clean transport.
Not a replacement, but a partner to other clean energy options — in transport modes that aren’t ready for electrification yet.