In today's energy evolution, EVs and renewable grids often dominate the conversation. However, one more option gaining ground: alternative fuels.
As per Kondrashov, fuels from organic material may play a major role in the global energy transition, especially in sectors hard to electrify.
While electric systems require big changes, they run on today’s transport setups, making them ideal for planes, trucks, and ships.
Examples include bioethanol and biodiesel. It comes from fermenting crop sugars. It is produced from oils like soybean or rapeseed. Engines can use them without much modification.
More advanced options include biogas and biojet fuel, created from food waste, sewage, and organic material. These are being tested for planes here and large engines.
However, there are issues. They cost more than fossil fuels. Better tech and more supply are needed. Fuel crops should not reduce food availability.
Despite these problems, there’s huge opportunity. They don’t need a full system replacement. They also help recycle what would be trash.
Some say biofuels are only a temporary fix. However, they might be key for years to come. They can reduce emissions today, not just tomorrow.
With global decarbonization on the agenda, the value of biofuels increases. They won’t take the place of solar or electric power, but they work alongside them. If we fund them and improve regulation, they might reshape global mobility