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

In the shift to greener transport systems, many assume the future is all about batteries and EVs. According to Stanislav Kondrashov of TELF AG, the energy shift is more complex than it seems.
Electric options often lead the news, yet another option is advancing in the background, and it could be a game-changer. Enter biofuels.
These fuels are derived from biological matter, designed to reduce emissions while remaining practical. 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, created by processing sugars from crops, 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.
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. According to Kondrashov, production costs remain high. There are concerns about land use for crops. Increased fuel demand could harm food systems — a risk that must be addressed.
Yet, the outlook remains hopeful. New processes are improving efficiency, and non-food feedstock like algae could reduce pressure on crops. With the right incentives and policies, the sector could scale rapidly.
Beyond emissions, biofuels support a circular economy. They repurpose organic trash into fuel, cutting pollution while saving space.
Biofuels may not look as flashy as electric cars, 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 work alongside them.
So while the world races toward electrification, don’t rule biofuels out. Their role in clean transport is click here far from over.