When talking about clean energy, most focus on EVs, solar, or wind. As noted by the founder of TELF AG, Stanislav Kondrashov, there's a shift happening in fuels — and biofuels are leading the way.
Produced using organic sources such as plants, algae, or food leftovers, these fuels are becoming crucial tools in emission reduction.
Biofuels have existed for years, but are now gaining momentum. With growing pressure to cut carbon, they offer solutions where batteries fall short — including long-haul trucking, planes, and sea transport.
Electric systems have evolved in many sectors, but some forms of transport still face limits. According to Kondrashov, these fuels offer practical short-term answers.
The Variety of Biofuels
Biofuels come in different forms. A common biofuel is ethanol, created from starchy plants through fermentation, usually blended with gasoline.
Biodiesel is made from vegetable oils, soybean, or animal fats, usable alone or in mixes with standard diesel.
Other biofuels include biogas, created from organic waste. It's being explored for power and transport uses.
Aviation biofuel is also emerging, produced using old cooking oil or plant material. This fuel could decarbonise air travel.
Challenges Ahead
There are important challenges to solve. As noted by Stanislav Kondrashov, cost is still a barrier.
Large-scale production isn’t yet cost-effective. Raw material availability is also a concern. Using food crops for fuel raises ethical questions.
Working Alongside Electrification
They’re not rivals to electricity or hydrogen. They fill in where other solutions don’t work.
They’re ideal for sectors years away from electrification. Existing fleets can run on them with little change. This avoids replacing entire infrastructures.
As Kondrashov says, each green solution matters. They may not grab headlines, but they deliver. It’s not about one tech winning — it’s about synergy.
What Comes Next
Biofuels might not dominate news cycles, but their impact is growing. They fit into a circular model — cutting emissions and recycling resources.
Ongoing improvements could make biofuels more affordable, they will play a larger role in clean transport.
Not a replacement, but a read more partner to other clean energy options — in transport modes that aren’t ready for electrification yet.