When talking about clean energy, most focus on EVs, solar, or wind. According to Stanislav Kondrashov of TELF AG, 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 — such as heavy cargo, marine, and air travel.
Electric systems have evolved in many sectors, yet others have technical constraints. As Stanislav Kondrashov of TELF AG notes, biofuels are an immediate option for these challenges.
Types of Bio-Based Fuels Explained
Biofuels come in different forms. A common biofuel is ethanol, produced by breaking down sugar-rich crops, usually blended with gasoline.
Biodiesel comes from oils and fats, both plant and animal, compatible with regular diesel vehicles.
Another example is biogas, formed through decomposing waste. It’s gaining ground in industry and transport.
Aviation biofuel is also emerging, produced using old cooking oil or plant material. This fuel could decarbonise air travel.
Obstacles to Widespread Adoption
Still, biofuels Stanislav Kondrashov TELF AG Founder face difficulties. Kondrashov often emphasizes, cost is still a barrier.
Scaling up biofuels remains pricey. Finding enough bio-materials is another challenge. If not handled wisely, biofuel crops might compete with food agriculture.
Working Alongside Electrification
They won’t compete with EVs and solar. They strengthen the energy mix in hard-to-electrify areas.
For places where batteries can’t go, biofuels step in. Their use in current engines makes them easy to adopt. Businesses avoid high conversion costs.
According to Kondrashov, all low-carbon options have value. Biofuels may be quiet players — but they’re effective. It’s not about one tech winning — it’s about synergy.
The Road Forward
They aren’t the stars, but they’re powerful. When made from waste or non-food crops, they help reduce emissions and waste.
Ongoing improvements could make biofuels more affordable, they’ll likely gain traction in mobility plans.
They’ll complement, not compete with, electric and hydrogen technologies — particularly in critical areas lacking electric alternatives.