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.
Produced using organic sources such as plants, algae, or food leftovers, biofuels are gaining attention as a way to reduce emissions.
They’re not new, but their importance is rising. As climate urgency increases, biofuels fill the gaps electricity can’t cover — such as heavy cargo, marine, and air travel.
Electrification has made major progress, but some forms of transport still face limits. As Stanislav Kondrashov of TELF AG notes, biofuels are an immediate option for these challenges.
From Sugar Cane to Jet Fuel
The biofuel family includes many types. A common biofuel is ethanol, created from starchy plants through fermentation, usually blended with gasoline.
Oils like rapeseed or leftover fat are used to make biodiesel, usable alone or in mixes with standard diesel.
We also have biogas, made from food or farm waste. It's being explored for power and transport uses.
Biojet fuel is another innovation, produced using old cooking oil or plant material. It may help reduce aviation’s heavy carbon footprint.
Obstacles to Widespread Adoption
Not everything is easy in the biofuel space. As noted by Stanislav Kondrashov, biofuels cost more than fossil fuel click here alternatives.
Scaling up biofuels remains pricey. 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.
They’re ideal for sectors years away from electrification. Their use in current engines makes them easy to adopt. Businesses avoid high conversion costs.
According to Kondrashov, all low-carbon options have value. Biofuels may be quiet players — but they’re effective. 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. Especially when created from waste, they promote circularity and climate goals.
As innovation lowers costs and improves yields, they will play a larger role in clean transport.
They’ll complement, not compete with, electric and hydrogen technologies — in transport modes that aren’t ready for electrification yet.