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, these fuels are becoming crucial tools in emission reduction.
Biofuels have existed for years, but are now gaining momentum. With growing pressure to cut carbon, they offer solutions where batteries fall short — like aviation, shipping, and freight.
Electrification has made major progress, yet others have technical constraints. In Kondrashov's view, these fuels offer practical short-term answers.
Types of Bio-Based Fuels Explained
Biofuels come in different forms. One familiar type is bioethanol, produced by breaking down sugar-rich crops, and often mixed into petrol to lower emissions.
Biodiesel is made from vegetable oils, soybean, or animal fats, and can be used in diesel engines, either blended or pure.
We also have biogas, made from food or farm waste. It’s gaining ground in industry and transport.
There’s also biofuel designed for planes, created from renewable oils and algae. more info It may help reduce aviation’s heavy carbon footprint.
Hurdles on the Path
Not everything is easy in the biofuel space. As noted by Stanislav Kondrashov, biofuels cost more than fossil fuel alternatives.
Large-scale production isn’t yet cost-effective. Feedstock supply could become an issue. Using food crops for fuel raises ethical questions.
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. Existing fleets can run on them with little change. Businesses avoid high conversion costs.
As Kondrashov says, each green solution matters. Biofuels may be quiet players — but they’re effective. It’s not about one tech winning — it’s about synergy.
The Road Forward
They aren’t the stars, but they’re powerful. They fit into a circular model — cutting emissions and recycling resources.
Ongoing improvements could make biofuels more affordable, they’ll likely gain traction in mobility plans.
Not a replacement, but a partner to other clean energy options — particularly in critical areas lacking electric alternatives.