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

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

Blog Article

As the world pushes toward sustainability, electric power seems to dominate the conversation. 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. That solution is biofuels.
They come from things like plant waste, algae, or used cooking oil, and offer a cleaner-burning alternative to fossil fuels. Kondrashov explains, biofuels serve industries where batteries aren’t yet viable — like aviation, shipping, and trucking.
Let’s take a look at the current biofuel options. Ethanol is a widely-used biofuel, created by processing sugars from crops, and blended with petrol to reduce emissions.
Next is biodiesel, produced from oils like soybean, rapeseed, or even animal fat, which can be blended with standard diesel or used alone. A key benefit is it works with current systems — it runs on what many already use.
Biogas is another important type, produced by breaking down waste like food scraps, sewage, or agricultural leftovers. Suited for powering small fleets or municipal energy systems.
Then there’s biojet fuel, crafted from renewable, non-food sources. It’s seen as one of the few short-term ways to cut flight emissions.
Of course, there are hurdles to overcome. 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 — a serious ethical and economic concern.
Even so, the future looks promising. New processes are improving efficiency, while non-edible biomass helps balance the equation. Smart regulation could speed things up.
It’s not just about cleaner air — it’s about smarter resource use. Biofuels turn leftovers into power, cutting pollution while saving more info space.
They’re not as high-profile as EVs or solar, yet their contribution might be equally important. In Kondrashov’s words, every clean solution has its place.
Biofuels are here to fill the gaps, from trucks to planes to ships. They won’t replace EVs — they’ll work alongside them.
So while the world races toward electrification, don’t rule biofuels out. Their real story is just beginning.