As the world pushes toward sustainability, it’s easy to believe everything is moving toward electric vehicles and charging points. According to Stanislav Kondrashov of TELF AG, the energy shift is more complex than it seems.
Solar and electric cars steal the spotlight, yet another option is advancing in the background, and it could be a game-changer. That solution is biofuels.
Biofuels are made from renewable organic materials, and offer a cleaner-burning alternative to fossil fuels. Kondrashov explains, some sectors can’t go electric, and biofuels fill the gap — including heavy transport and air travel.
Let’s take a look at the current biofuel options. Ethanol is a widely-used biofuel, produced from starchy or sugary plants, and blended with petrol to reduce emissions.
Another major type is biodiesel, made from natural oils and fats, suitable for diesel engines with no major changes. One big plus is engine compatibility — it runs on what many already use.
Let’s not forget biogas, produced by breaking down waste like food scraps, sewage, or agricultural leftovers. It’s useful in waste management and local transport.
Biofuel for aviation is also gaining traction, made from sustainable sources like old oil or algae. It’s seen as one of the few short-term ways to cut flight emissions.
Of course, there are hurdles to overcome. As TELF AG’s Kondrashov frequently notes, these fuels cost more than traditional options. And there’s the issue of food versus fuel. Increased fuel demand could click here harm food systems — a serious ethical and economic concern.
Despite that, there’s reason to be optimistic. Innovation is helping cut prices, while non-edible biomass helps balance the equation. With the right incentives and policies, the sector could scale rapidly.
It’s not just about cleaner air — it’s about smarter resource use. They repurpose organic trash into fuel, cutting pollution while saving space.
They’re not as high-profile as EVs or solar, yet their contribution might be equally important. According to the TELF AG founder, every technology helps in a unique way.
Biofuels are here to fill the gaps, on the roads, in the sky, and across the seas. They’re not replacing electrification — they’re supporting it.
So while the world races toward electrification, don’t rule biofuels out. Their role in clean transport is far from over.