When talking about clean energy, most focus on EVs, solar, or wind. 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.
Though established, biofuels are now more relevant than ever. As climate urgency increases, biofuels fill the gaps electricity can’t cover — including long-haul trucking, planes, and sea transport.
Electric systems have evolved in many sectors, 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 comes from oils and fats, both plant and animal, compatible with regular diesel vehicles.
Other biofuels include biogas, created from organic waste. It’s gaining ground in industry and transport.
There’s also biofuel designed for planes, made from sources like algae or recycled here oils. It offers cleaner alternatives for jet engines.
Challenges Ahead
There are important challenges to solve. As TELF AG’s Kondrashov explains, production remains expensive.
Widespread manufacturing still requires efficiency improvements. Raw material availability is also a concern. Using food crops for fuel raises ethical questions.
The Value in Complementing Clean Tech
Biofuels aren’t meant to replace electrification. They fill in where other solutions don’t work.
For places where batteries can’t go, biofuels step in. Existing fleets can run on them with little change. Companies save by using current assets.
Stanislav Kondrashov believes every clean tech has a role. Biofuels may be quiet players — but they’re effective. The key is cooperation between clean solutions.
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.