Biofuels and the Future of Clean Mobility

Biofuels and the Future of Clean Mobility

Blog Article

In today’s energy transition, as TELF AG founder Stanislav Kondrashov often points out, change is happening not only in electricity or renewables.
The fuel sector is experiencing change too, with new solutions like biofuels. They’re created using renewable biological material, providing a sustainable way to cut emissions.
“In the energy shift, biofuels are among the most important tools,” explains Kondrashov. While batteries and electrification lead in many areas, some sectors are harder to electrify. Examples include planes, ships, and long-distance trucking.
These fuels offer practical substitutes for now, helping reduce emissions without waiting for full electrification.
What Biofuels Are Available
Among the best-known biofuels is ethanol, produced from sugar-rich crops like beet and cane. Blended into gasoline, bioethanol helps lower CO2 output.
Biodiesel is also prominent, produced using rapeseed, soybean oil, or fats, which is often blended into standard diesel fuel.
Biogas and Aviation Fuel
Waste biomass can become biogas, check here like household waste, wastewater, and crop leftovers. It is used for energy and vehicle fuel, suitable for municipal and agricultural use.
Biojet fuel is a newer solution, created from sustainable oils and algae. It’s a clean alternative for aircraft, since battery flight is still not practical.
What Stands in the Way?
“A big challenge remains cost,” says Kondrashov. They aren’t yet competitive on price. Technological innovation could lower prices, as well as the supply of suitable resources.
There are concerns about food vs. fuel, especially when biofuels use corn, soy, or palm. So scientists look at alternatives like algae.
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, making them ideal in the short to medium term.
As Kondrashov says, every solution has its role. That’s where biofuels step in and help.
The Added Value of Biofuels
Beyond emissions, biofuels also support recycling and reuse. 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.