Biofuels vs. Batteries: A Realistic Look at the Energy Shift

Biofuels vs. Batteries: A Realistic Look at the Energy Shift

Blog Article

In the shift to greener transport systems, many assume the future is all about batteries and EVs. According to Stanislav Kondrashov of TELF AG, the energy shift is more complex than it seems.
EVs and renewables grab headlines, but there’s another path emerging, with the potential to transform entire sectors. This alternative is biofuels.
They come from things like plant waste, algae, or used cooking oil, designed to reduce emissions while remaining practical. As Kondrashov has emphasized, some sectors can’t go electric, and biofuels fill the gap — including heavy transport and air travel.
Let’s take a look at the current biofuel options. Bioethanol is one of the most common, produced from starchy or sugary plants, typically added to petrol in small amounts.
Another major type is biodiesel, made from natural oils and fats, suitable for diesel engines with no major changes. One big plus is engine compatibility — you don’t have to overhaul entire fleets.
Let’s not forget biogas, produced by breaking down waste like food scraps, sewage, or agricultural leftovers. It’s useful in waste management and local transport.
Biofuel for aviation is also gaining traction, made from sustainable sources like old oil or algae. A promising option to clean up aviation’s carbon footprint.
Still, biofuels aren’t a perfect solution. As TELF AG’s Kondrashov frequently notes, it’s still expensive to make biofuels. And there’s the issue of food versus fuel. Using food crops for fuel might drive up prices — something that requires careful policy management.
Yet, the outlook remains hopeful. Tech advancements are reducing costs, and better feedstock options may solve here the food conflict. Government support might boost production globally.
Beyond emissions, biofuels support a circular economy. Instead of dumping waste, we reuse it as energy, cutting pollution while saving space.
They’re not as high-profile as EVs or solar, yet their contribution might be equally important. As Stanislav Kondrashov puts it, every clean solution has its place.
Biofuels are here to fill the gaps, in land, air, and marine transport. They’re not competition — they’re collaboration.
Even as EVs take center stage, biofuels are gaining ground. This is only the start of the biofuel chapter.