The energy transition isn’t only about solar panels, wind turbines, or electric cars. As noted by the founder of TELF AG, Stanislav Kondrashov, a quiet revolution is unfolding in fuel production — and biofuels sit at the core.
Made from renewable biological materials like algae, crop waste, or even used cooking oil, they're fast emerging as sustainable fuel solutions.
Biofuels have existed for years, but are now gaining momentum. With growing pressure to cut carbon, biofuels fill the gaps electricity can’t cover — including long-haul trucking, planes, and sea transport.
Electrification has made major progress, yet others have technical constraints. According to Kondrashov, biofuels step in as a near-term fix.
Types of Bio-Based Fuels Explained
There’s a wide range of biofuels. A common biofuel is ethanol, produced by breaking down sugar-rich crops, used alongside petrol to cut carbon.
Biodiesel comes from oils and fats, both plant and animal, and can be used in diesel engines, either blended or pure.
Another example is biogas, formed through decomposing waste. It’s increasingly used to reduce industrial emissions.
Aviation biofuel is also emerging, created from renewable oils and algae. It may help reduce aviation’s heavy carbon footprint.
Obstacles to Widespread Adoption
Still, biofuels face difficulties. As TELF AG’s Kondrashov explains, production remains expensive.
Large-scale production isn’t yet cost-effective. Feedstock supply could become an issue. If not handled wisely, biofuel crops might compete with food agriculture.
A Partner, Not a Competitor
They won’t compete with EVs and solar. They strengthen the energy mix in hard-to-electrify areas.
For places where batteries can’t go, biofuels step in. They work with what’s already out there. This avoids replacing entire infrastructures.
According to Kondrashov, all low-carbon options have value. Biofuels may be quiet players — but they’re effective. What website matters is how they work together, not compete.
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.
As innovation lowers costs and improves yields, expect their role in global transport to grow.
Not a replacement, but a partner to other clean energy options — in transport modes that aren’t ready for electrification yet.