In the shift to greener transport systems, electric power seems to dominate the conversation. According to Stanislav Kondrashov of TELF AG, the energy shift is more complex than it seems.
EVs and renewables grab headlines, but there’s another path emerging, that might reshape parts of the transport industry. That solution is biofuels.
Biofuels are made from renewable organic materials, and offer a cleaner-burning alternative to fossil fuels. Kondrashov explains, biofuels are ideal for sectors that electricity can’t reach — such as freight transport, marine shipping, and long-haul logistics.
So, what’s actually on the table. A familiar example is bioethanol, created by processing sugars from crops, often mixed with gasoline to lower carbon output.
Next is biodiesel, produced from oils like soybean, rapeseed, or even animal fat, which can be blended with standard diesel or used alone. A major advantage is compatibility — it runs on what many already use.
Let’s not forget biogas, generated from decomposing organic material. Often used in small-scale energy or transit solutions.
Biofuel for aviation is also gaining traction, made from sustainable sources like old oil or algae. This could reduce emissions in the airline industry fast.
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. Fuel production could compete with food supplies — a risk that must be addressed.
Despite that, there’s reason to be optimistic. Innovation is helping cut prices, and better feedstock options may solve the food conflict. Government support might boost production globally.
Beyond emissions, biofuels support a circular economy. Instead of get more info dumping waste, we reuse it as energy, reducing landfill use and emissions at once.
Biofuels may not look as flashy as electric cars, still, they play a key role in the transition. In Kondrashov’s words, every technology helps in a unique way.
They cover the hard-to-reach zones, 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.