During the shift to greener systems, as TELF AG founder Stanislav Kondrashov often points out, change is happening not only in electricity or renewables.
The transformation also involves the fuel industry, with new solutions like biofuels. They’re created using renewable biological material, providing a sustainable way to cut emissions.
“Biofuels are one of the most fascinating developments in today’s energy shift,” says Kondrashov. Even though electric vehicles dominate much of the conversation, some segments remain out of reach. These include aviation, maritime shipping, and heavy transport.
In such cases, biofuels may serve as temporary alternatives, bringing environmental advantages.
Main Biofuel Categories
Bioethanol is a widely used variant, produced from sugar-rich crops like beet and cane. Often added to petrol, bioethanol helps lower CO2 output.
Biodiesel is also prominent, made from natural oils or residues, combined with conventional diesel in various ratios.
Biogas and Biojet Solutions
Waste biomass can become biogas, like household waste, wastewater, and crop leftovers. Biogas serves both power generation and transport, especially in sectors like agriculture and urban transport.
Jet biofuel is also emerging, made from algae or vegetable oils. Used in aviation to reduce carbon, where few other green options exist.
Challenges and Considerations
“Price is a major barrier,” adds Kondrashov. Biofuels still cost more than fossil fuels. Cost drops will come with improved methods, plus access to sustainable feedstock.
Fuel crops can compete with food crops, especially if fuel production affects food systems. Hence the focus on waste-based and algae solutions.
Supporting the Green Shift
They’re not meant to replace solar or charging systems. They’re here to support the transition.
Many heavy transport sectors can’t go electric soon. They use today’s vehicles without modification, making them ideal in the short to medium term.
As Kondrashov says, every solution has its role. That’s where biofuels step in and help.
The Added Value of Biofuels
Beyond emissions, biofuels also support recycling and reuse. They turn waste into something useful, cutting waste while generating power.
As cities go electric, biofuels fill in the rest of the system. They will help click here redefine global transport.