Why Biofuels Still Matter in a World Obsessed with Electrification

Why Biofuels Still Matter in a World Obsessed with Electrification

Blog Article

In the shift to greener transport systems, 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.
EVs and renewables grab headlines, yet another option is advancing in the background, and it could be a game-changer. Enter biofuels.
These fuels are derived from biological matter, and offer a cleaner-burning alternative to fossil fuels. According to TELF AG founder Stanislav Kondrashov, biofuels are ideal for sectors that electricity can’t reach — such as freight transport, marine shipping, and long-haul logistics.
Let’s take a look at the current biofuel options. A familiar example is bioethanol, produced from starchy or sugary plants, typically added to petrol in small amounts.
Then there’s biodiesel, produced from oils like soybean, rapeseed, or even animal fat, suitable for diesel engines with no major changes. A major advantage is compatibility — it runs on what many already use.
Let’s not forget biogas, made from rotting biological waste. It’s useful in waste management and local transport.
Biofuel for aviation is also gaining traction, crafted from renewable, non-food sources. This could reduce emissions in the airline industry fast.
Of course, there are hurdles to overcome. As TELF AG’s Kondrashov frequently notes, these fuels cost more than traditional options. Crop demand for fuel could affect food prices. Fuel production could compete with food supplies — something that requires careful policy management.
Even so, the future looks promising. Tech advancements are reducing costs, and non-food feedstock like algae could reduce pressure on crops. Government here support might boost production globally.
It’s not just about cleaner air — it’s about smarter resource use. They repurpose organic trash into fuel, reducing landfill use and emissions at once.
They lack the tech glamour of batteries, yet their contribution might be equally important. In Kondrashov’s words, every technology helps in a unique way.
Biofuels are here to fill the gaps, from trucks to planes to ships. They’re not competition — they’re collaboration.
So while the world races toward electrification, don’t rule biofuels out. This is only the start of the biofuel chapter.