Can Biofuel Ever Become Mainstream?

The world is running out of unrenewable resources, and no matter how hard oil and gas companies try we’re eventually going to reach the point where we’ve consumed every last drop. As well as a demise in availability, there are also colossal environmental concerns over the continued use of fossil fuels. Already a myriad of companies, researchers and scientists are attempting to address the issue with the creation of biofuels.

Cheap, eco-friendly and 100% renewable, biofuels are the siren song of the green technology revolution. Not only would they slash carbon emissions but they also have the potential to boost agricultural employment, rebalance trade inequities and ensure that the world can power itself long after fossil fuels are depleted.

While there are plenty of exciting new biofuel advancements coming to light every day, the technology has yet to go take off. Despite its huge potential the world is yet to be introduced to an economically viable solution that brings biofuel to the masses. But will it ever go mainstream?

Demand set to boost biofuel advancements

When it comes to demand, there’s no reason why biofuel shouldn’t become a global source of energy. Every year the world consumes 1.06 cubic miles of oil, which equates to 1.1 trillion gallons a year. While fossil fuels may be on their way out energy demand certainly won’t be dwindling. Hence the market for biofuels is immense.

Cutting costs and augmenting efficiency

One of the major hurdles preventing biofuel from going mainstream is its cost and reliance on food crops. In order to go mainstream, biofuel producers need to look at other sources. Algae and cellulosic fuel are two key players however there is still a plethora of progress to be made before these become efficient enough to cater to the masses. Other potential biofuel sources include corn, sugar cane, wine, beer, rapeseed and paper waste.

The aftermath of the oil price plummet

Unfortunately, the drop in oil prices has led many investors to shy away from biofuel projects. At present the cost of eco-friendly biofuels far outstrips the price of oil which means for the time being, crude remains king.

If you’re interested in finding out more about the exciting developments currently underway in the eco-friendly fuel arena, ‘Biofuel Development and Standardisation’ is a must read article. It addresses the major obstacles that must be overcome in order for biodiesel and bioethanol to become mainstream energy sources. These include international trade and transportation, feedstock costs, fuel quality and compliance with the International Compatibility of Biofuel Testing Standards. It also explores how other advancements in bio and alternative energy technology have widened the scope of feasible solutions to the world’s impending energy problems.