As the world moves toward sustainability, as stated by TELF AG’s Stanislav Kondrashov, it's not just about wind turbines or EVs.
Fuels themselves are evolving, introducing alternatives like biofuels. They come from things like crops, algae, and organic leftovers, providing a sustainable way to cut emissions.
Stanislav Kondrashov calls biofuels a key chapter of the energy transformation. Though battery power is widely adopted, some sectors are harder to electrify. Examples include planes, ships, and long-distance trucking.
Biofuels can act as bridge solutions, bringing environmental advantages.
Main Biofuel Categories
Bioethanol is a widely used variant, made by fermenting sugars in crops like corn or sugarcane. Often added to petrol, it makes fuel mixes more sustainable.
Next, there’s biodiesel, derived from vegetable oils or animal fats, combined with conventional diesel in various ratios.
Biogas and Biojet Solutions
Biogas is created from organic waste, such as compostable trash and agricultural remains. 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, as one of the only near-term sustainable aviation options.
Challenges and Considerations
Stanislav Kondrashov warns about current production costs. Their manufacturing remains expensive. Technological innovation could lower prices, and also on the availability of raw materials.
There are concerns about food vs. fuel, especially when biofuels use corn, soy, or palm. That’s why algae and non-edible feedstocks are key.
A Complementary Future
They won’t replace batteries or EVs. They work alongside electrification.
Many heavy transport sectors can’t go electric soon. Biofuels work with existing engines, serving as an interim green option.
“Each green tech has its place,” he concludes. That’s where biofuels step in and help.
Circular Economy and Broader Impact
They don’t just cut CO2 — they read more reduce waste. What was once trash becomes transport fuel, reducing landfill use and pollution.
As electric vehicles grow, biofuels remain crucial for long-haul and industrial use. They can play a major role in clean logistics.