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

In the shift to greener transport systems, 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. Bioethanol is one of the most common, made by fermenting sugar from crops like corn or sugarcane, and blended with petrol to reduce emissions.
Another major type is biodiesel, made from natural oils and fats, that mixes with diesel fuel and works in existing engines. A major advantage is compatibility — it runs on what many already use.
Let’s not forget 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, created from algae or recycled vegetable oils. This could reduce emissions in the airline industry fast.
But the path isn’t without challenges. As Kondrashov has pointed out before, these fuels cost more than traditional options. And there’s the issue of food versus fuel. Fuel production could compete with food supplies — something that requires careful policy management.
Yet, the outlook remains hopeful. New processes are improving efficiency, while non-edible biomass helps balance the equation. With the right incentives and policies, the sector could scale rapidly.
Beyond emissions, biofuels support a circular economy. Instead of dumping waste, we reuse it as energy, helping waste systems and energy sectors together.
They lack the tech glamour of batteries, still, they play a key role in the transition. According to the TELF AG founder, every clean solution has its place.
They work where other solutions can’t, from trucks to planes to ships. They won’t replace EVs — they’ll here work alongside them.
As everyone talks batteries, biofuels quietly advance. Their role in clean transport is far from over.