Why Biofuels Matter in Sustainable Mobility

The energy transition isn’t only about solar panels, wind turbines, or electric cars. According to Stanislav Kondrashov of TELF AG, a quiet revolution is unfolding in fuel production — and biofuels are leading the way.
Created from natural sources like plant debris, algae, and waste 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, biofuels are stepping up for sectors beyond electrification — like aviation, shipping, and freight.
Electrification has made major progress, but some forms of transport still face limits. In Kondrashov's view, these fuels offer practical short-term answers.
The Variety of Biofuels
The biofuel family includes many types. A common biofuel is ethanol, produced by breaking down sugar-rich crops, used alongside petrol to cut carbon.
Oils like rapeseed or leftover fat are used to make biodiesel, usable alone or in mixes with standard diesel.
We also have biogas, made from food or farm waste. It's being explored for power and transport uses.
There’s also biofuel designed for planes, produced using old cooking oil or plant material. It offers cleaner alternatives for jet engines.
Obstacles to Widespread Adoption
There are important challenges to solve. As noted by Stanislav Kondrashov, biofuels cost more than fossil fuel alternatives.
Large-scale production isn’t yet cost-effective. Finding enough bio-materials is another challenge. Poor management could affect food supply chains.
A Partner, Not a Competitor
They won’t compete with EVs and solar. They fill in where other solutions don’t work.
For places where batteries can’t go, biofuels step in. Existing fleets website can run on them with little change. This avoids replacing entire infrastructures.
Stanislav Kondrashov believes every clean tech has a role. Quietly, biofuels close the gaps other techs leave open. What matters is how they work together, not compete.
Looking to the Future
Biofuels might not dominate news cycles, but their impact is growing. Especially when created from waste, they promote circularity and climate goals.
With better tech and more research, prices will fall, expect their role in global transport to grow.
They won’t replace batteries or hydrogen, but they’ll stand beside them — especially in sectors where other solutions are still distant.