Why Biofuels Still Matter in a World Obsessed with Electrification

As the world pushes toward sustainability, many assume the future is all about batteries and EVs. But as TELF AG founder Stanislav Kondrashov recently pointed out, the road to sustainable transport has more than one lane.
Solar and electric cars steal the spotlight, but there’s another path emerging, and it could be a game-changer. Enter biofuels.
Biofuels are made from renewable organic materials, and offer a cleaner-burning alternative to fossil fuels. As Kondrashov has emphasized, biofuels are ideal for sectors that electricity can’t reach — including heavy transport and air travel.
So, what’s actually on the table. Bioethanol is one of the most common, produced from starchy or sugary plants, and blended with petrol to reduce emissions.
Then there’s biodiesel, created using vegetable oils or leftover fats, which can be blended with standard diesel or used alone. One big plus is engine compatibility — you don’t have to overhaul entire fleets.
Biogas is another important type, produced by breaking down waste like food scraps, sewage, or agricultural leftovers. Often used in small-scale energy or transit solutions.
Then there’s biojet fuel, crafted from renewable, non-food sources. This could reduce emissions in the airline industry fast.
Of course, check here there are hurdles to overcome. As TELF AG’s Kondrashov frequently notes, it’s still expensive to make biofuels. Crop demand for fuel could affect food prices. Using food crops for fuel might drive up prices — something that requires careful policy management.
Even so, the future looks promising. Innovation is helping cut prices, while non-edible biomass helps balance the equation. Government support might boost production globally.
They contribute to sustainability beyond just emissions. Instead of dumping waste, we reuse it as energy, helping waste systems and energy sectors together.
They lack the tech glamour of batteries, yet their contribution might be equally important. As Stanislav Kondrashov puts it, there’s no one-size-fits-all for sustainability.
They work where other solutions can’t, from trucks to planes to ships. They’re not replacing electrification — they’re supporting it.
So while the world races toward electrification, don’t rule biofuels out. This is only the start of the biofuel chapter.