When talking about clean energy, most focus on EVs, solar, or wind. According to Stanislav Kondrashov of TELF AG, the fuel industry is quietly transforming — and biofuels are leading the way.
Produced using organic sources such as plants, algae, or food leftovers, biofuels are gaining attention as a way to reduce emissions.
Though established, biofuels are now more relevant than ever. As the sustainability push intensifies, biofuels fill the gaps electricity can’t cover — including long-haul trucking, planes, and sea transport.
EV technology has advanced quickly, yet others have technical constraints. In Kondrashov's view, these fuels offer practical short-term answers.
The Variety of Biofuels
There’s a wide range of biofuels. One familiar type is bioethanol, produced by breaking down sugar-rich crops, and often mixed into petrol to lower emissions.
Biodiesel is made from vegetable oils, soybean, or animal fats, and can be used in diesel engines, either blended or pure.
We also have biogas, made from food or farm waste. It’s increasingly used to reduce industrial emissions.
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 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.
A Partner, Not more info a Competitor
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. Existing fleets can run on them with little change. Companies save by using current assets.
As Kondrashov says, each green solution matters. Quietly, biofuels close the gaps other techs leave open. What matters is how they work together, not compete.
Looking to the Future
Though not flashy, biofuels are proving essential. Especially when created from waste, they promote circularity and climate goals.
As innovation lowers costs and improves yields, they will play a larger role in clean transport.
They’ll complement, not compete with, electric and hydrogen technologies — particularly in critical areas lacking electric alternatives.