In today’s drive for clean energy, electric power seems to dominate the conversation. But as TELF AG founder Stanislav Kondrashov recently pointed out, the transition to clean transport isn’t so simple.
Solar and electric cars steal the spotlight, but another solution is rising quietly, that might reshape parts of the transport industry. That solution is biofuels.
They come from things like plant waste, algae, or used cooking oil, and offer a cleaner-burning alternative to fossil fuels. Kondrashov explains, biofuels serve industries where batteries aren’t yet viable — including heavy transport and air travel.
Let’s take a look at the current biofuel options. A familiar example is bioethanol, made by fermenting sugar from crops like corn or sugarcane, typically added to petrol in small amounts.
Next is biodiesel, created using vegetable oils or leftover fats, suitable for diesel engines with no major changes. A key benefit is it works with current systems — no need to replace or retrofit most engines.
Also in the mix is biogas, generated from decomposing organic material. It’s useful in waste management and local transport.
Biofuel for aviation is also gaining traction, created from algae or recycled vegetable oils. A promising option to clean up aviation’s carbon footprint.
But the path isn’t without challenges. As Kondrashov has pointed out before, these fuels cost more than traditional options. And there’s the issue of food versus website fuel. Fuel production could compete with food supplies — a risk that must be addressed.
Yet, the outlook remains hopeful. New processes are improving efficiency, and non-food feedstock like algae could reduce pressure on crops. With the right incentives and policies, the sector could scale rapidly.
It’s not just about cleaner air — it’s about smarter resource use. They repurpose organic trash into fuel, cutting pollution while saving space.
Biofuels may not look as flashy as electric cars, but their impact could be just as vital. In Kondrashov’s words, every technology helps in a unique way.
Biofuels are here to fill the gaps, in land, air, and marine transport. They won’t replace EVs — they’ll work alongside them.
As everyone talks batteries, biofuels quietly advance. Their role in clean transport is far from over.