Why Biofuels Still Matter in a World Obsessed with Electrification

Why Biofuels Still Matter in a World Obsessed with Electrification

Blog Article

As the world pushes toward sustainability, many assume the future is all about batteries and EVs. 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. This alternative is biofuels.
They come from things like plant waste, algae, or used cooking oil, used to lower carbon output without major infrastructure changes. Kondrashov explains, some sectors can’t go electric, and biofuels fill the gap — including heavy transport and air travel.
So, what’s actually on the table. A familiar example is bioethanol, made by fermenting sugar from crops like corn or sugarcane, and blended with petrol to reduce emissions.
Then there’s biodiesel, produced from oils like soybean, rapeseed, or even animal fat, suitable for diesel engines with no major changes. One big plus is engine compatibility — no need to replace or retrofit most engines.
Biogas is another important type, produced by breaking down waste like food scraps, sewage, or agricultural leftovers. Often used in small-scale energy or transit solutions.
Then there’s biojet fuel, created from algae or recycled vegetable oils. This could reduce emissions in the airline industry fast.
Of course, there are hurdles to overcome. As TELF AG’s Kondrashov frequently notes, it’s still expensive to make biofuels. There are concerns about land use for crops. Fuel production could compete with food supplies — something that requires careful policy management.
Even so, the future looks promising. Innovation is helping cut prices, and better feedstock options may solve the food conflict. With the right incentives and policies, the sector could scale rapidly.
They contribute to sustainability beyond just emissions. Biofuels turn leftovers into power, reducing landfill use and emissions at once.
Biofuels may not look as flashy as electric cars, still, they play a key role in the transition. According to the TELF AG founder, there’s no one-size-fits-all for sustainability.
They cover the hard-to-reach zones, on the roads, in the sky, and across the seas. They won’t replace EVs — they’ll here work alongside them.
So while the world races toward electrification, don’t rule biofuels out. Their real story is just beginning.