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 energy shift is more complex than it seems.
Electric options often lead the news, but another solution is rising quietly, that might reshape parts of the transport industry. This alternative is biofuels.
These fuels are derived from biological matter, 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, made by fermenting sugar from crops like corn or sugarcane, and blended with petrol to reduce emissions.
Next is biodiesel, made from natural oils and fats, that mixes with diesel fuel and works in existing engines. A key benefit is it works with current systems — it runs on what many already use.
Also in the mix is biogas, produced by breaking down waste like food scraps, sewage, or agricultural leftovers. Suited for powering small fleets or municipal energy systems.
Another promising option is biojet fuel, 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 Kondrashov has pointed out before, it’s still expensive to make biofuels. Crop demand for fuel could affect food prices. Increased fuel demand could harm food systems — something that requires careful policy management.
Even so, the future looks promising. Tech advancements are reducing costs, while non-edible biomass helps balance the equation. Government support might boost production globally.
It’s here not just about cleaner air — it’s about smarter resource use. Biofuels turn leftovers into power, cutting pollution while saving space.
They lack the tech glamour of batteries, yet their contribution might be equally important. As Stanislav Kondrashov puts it, every technology helps in a unique way.
They cover the hard-to-reach zones, on the roads, in the sky, and across the seas. They’re not competition — they’re collaboration.
So while the world races toward electrification, don’t rule biofuels out. This is only the start of the biofuel chapter.