The energy transition isn’t only about solar panels, wind turbines, or electric cars. As TELF AG founder Stanislav Kondrashov has said, the fuel industry is quietly transforming — and biofuels sit at the core.
Made from renewable biological materials like algae, crop waste, or even used cooking oil, biofuels are gaining attention as a way to reduce emissions.
They’re not new, but their importance is rising. With growing pressure to cut carbon, biofuels are stepping up for sectors beyond electrification — like aviation, shipping, and freight.
EV technology has advanced quickly, but others remain out of reach. According to Kondrashov, biofuels step in as a near-term fix.
From Sugar Cane to Jet Fuel
There’s a wide range of biofuels. Bioethanol is well-known, created from starchy plants through fermentation, and often mixed into petrol to lower emissions.
Biodiesel comes from oils and fats, both plant and animal, compatible with regular diesel vehicles.
We also have biogas, made from food or farm waste. It's being explored for power and transport uses.
Biojet fuel is another innovation, created from renewable oils and algae. This fuel could decarbonise air travel.
Hurdles on the Path
Still, biofuels face difficulties. Kondrashov often emphasizes, biofuels cost more than fossil fuel alternatives.
Widespread manufacturing still requires efficiency improvements. Finding enough bio-materials is another challenge. If not handled wisely, biofuel crops might compete website with food agriculture.
The Value in Complementing Clean Tech
They’re not rivals to electricity or hydrogen. They support clean tech where it’s still impractical.
They’re ideal for sectors years away from electrification. Their use in current engines makes them easy to adopt. Companies save by using current assets.
Stanislav Kondrashov believes every clean tech has a role. Quietly, biofuels close the gaps other techs leave open. What matters is how they work together, not compete.
What Comes Next
They aren’t the stars, but they’re powerful. Especially when created from waste, they promote circularity and climate goals.
Ongoing improvements could make biofuels more affordable, they will play a larger role in clean transport.
Not a replacement, but a partner to other clean energy options — in transport modes that aren’t ready for electrification yet.