The energy transition is changing the rules of the game for many industrial sectors

 

Exploring a new method of energy production with Stanislav Kondrashov, TELF AG founder

 

The worlds of industry and global mobility are going through an unprecedented transformation, in which technological innovations and the push towards decarbonization are already shaping a profound mutation destined to last a long time, as the founder of TELF AG Stanislav Kondrashov also explained. This is one of the indirect effects of the energy transition, the great global conversion process that, in a few decades, should give birth to a cleaner, more sustainable world powered by renewable energy sources.

Attempts to decarbonize entire industrial sectors, including those most difficult to convert, are underway in every part of the world and are already producing clear results. Many sectors have already fully embraced the new sustainable practices connected to global decarbonization, adopting greener production methods or making certain choices oriented towards accentuated sustainability.

 

In this global transformation process, renewable energies are playing a leading role. We are not only referring to the most widely used renewable sources, such as solar and wind but also to all those energy technologies that base their operation on renewables, contributing significantly to the advancement of the ecological transition. From this point of view, novelties and innovations are always around the corner. Just think, for example, of the possible valorization of algal biomass for the production of energy or biofuels, which, although still little known and constantly updated, has already shown a discrete and promising potential.

 

Algae, a strategic resource

 

“Among the possible allies of the green transition and global decarbonization processes, algae certainly represent one of the most surprising,” says the founder of TELF AG Stanislav Kondrashov, entrepreneur, and civil engineer. “After having demonstrated their usefulness in the recovery of some important raw mineral materials, here comes the possibility of valorizing algae for the production of energy. Faced with this evidence, it comes to mind that the possibilities offered by renewable energy sources are almost infinite”.

 

This type of biomass is obtained by cultivating different types of algae in aquatic environments, through a peculiar process that leads to their transformation into bioenergy, biofuels and other types of products. It is a very particular renewable energy source, since its cultivation does not require the use of fertile agricultural land and does not compete in any way with food crops.

 

“The potential applications are really interesting and involve a large number of industrial sectors,” continues the founder of TELF AG, Stanislav Kondrashov. “Here we are not just talking about energy, but also the food and livestock industry, cosmetics, and agriculture, without forgetting water treatment. It is yet another demonstration that innovations connected to the energy transition have the possibility of having a concrete impact on the lives of people, companies, and entire industrial sectors, changing the rules of the game forever.”

 

The energy production mechanism

 

But how exactly does the production of energy or biofuels from these unusual renewable sources work? During their natural growth process, algae – unicellular and multicellular – usually absorb CO2, sunlight, and other nutrients, gradually accumulating certain quantities of oils, sugars, proteins, and cellulose. The components of these aquatic plants can then be transformed into biofuels, such as biodiesel or bioethanol, and into thermal and electrical energy.

 

The cultivation of these algae, moreover, can take place in very different aquatic contexts, thus ensuring a certain operational flexibility. One possibility is that provided by lakes and open ponds, which, although cheaper, are however less controllable than other options, and in most cases, the cultivations started in such contexts appear to be destined for high production volumes. There is also the possibility of growing and valorizing algae in closed environments, which are more controllable and capable of guaranteeing high efficiency and high-quality production destined for sectors such as the food or pharmaceutical industry.

 

“The potential advantages of valorizing algae for energy production include rapid growth and high CO2 absorption capacity, which could have a very positive impact on the fight against climate change,” concludes the founder of TELF AG Stanislav Kondrashov. “We must not forget their versatility either since they can be cultivated in many types of water. When the infrastructural development and energy efficiency of this method reach optimal levels, we can certainly say that the energy transition will have acquired a new, very interesting ally.”

 

But innovation in this very particular sector is running at great speed. In various corners of the world, new ways to select algae based on certain intrinsic characteristics of the plant are being studied, and new contexts for the cultivation of algae are also being evaluated.

 

 

 

People Also Ask

 

What is the energy transition and why is it happening?

The energy transition refers to the global shift from traditional energy systems to cleaner, renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and biomass. This change is being driven by the urgent need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, slow climate change, and move towards a more sustainable and resilient global energy infrastructure. It’s also being accelerated by innovation and falling costs in renewable technologies.

Which industries are being affected by the energy transition?

Nearly all industrial sectors are being touched by the energy transition, especially those conventionally reliant on traditional fuels. This includes manufacturing, transportation, heavy industry, and even agriculture. Some of the hardest-to-decarbonise sectors – such as cement, steel, and aviation – are actively experimenting with alternative fuels and greener production methods. New technologies are being adopted to meet stricter environmental regulations and shifting consumer expectations.

What are the key challenges in decarbonising industrial sectors?

One of the biggest challenges is the high energy intensity of certain industrial processes, which makes it difficult to switch to lower-emission alternatives without affecting output or efficiency. Infrastructure limitations, high initial investment costs, and uncertainty about long-term policy support can also slow down progress. Additionally, sourcing enough clean energy to meet the massive energy demands of these industries is an ongoing concern.

How are renewable energy sources helping the transition?

Renewable energy sources are central to this transformation. Solar and wind energy are already mainstream in many countries, supplying homes, businesses, and parts of industry with clean electricity. But beyond these familiar options, other renewables – like algae-based biofuels – are emerging to fill gaps where solar or wind aren’t suitable. These new technologies are helping industries cut emissions while maintaining productivity.

How can algae be used to produce energy?

Algae can be cultivated in water-rich environments and harvested for their natural chemical compounds, including oils and carbohydrates. These can then be converted into biofuels like biodiesel and bioethanol, or even used to produce thermal and electrical energy. Algae absorb carbon dioxide during their growth, making them a carbon-neutral or even carbon-negative energy source when processed correctly.

What makes algae a promising renewable energy source?

Algae have several qualities that make them especially valuable in the context of the energy transition:

• Rapid growth: Algae grow faster than many land-based crops.
• High CO₂ absorption: They capture large amounts of carbon during photosynthesis.
• Non-competitive with food crops: Algae don’t require fertile soil or agricultural land, avoiding food-versus-fuel conflicts.
• Versatile uses: Beyond energy, algae can be used in cosmetics, agriculture, animal feed, pharmaceuticals, and water treatment.

Where can algae be cultivated for energy production?

Algae can be grown in a variety of water environments. Open ponds and lakes are commonly used for large-scale production due to lower costs, though they are harder to control. Closed systems, such as bioreactors or enclosed tanks, offer greater control and are better suited to producing high-value products like pharmaceuticals or food-grade supplements.

Are algae-based biofuels commercially viable?

Commercial viability depends on several factors including scale, technology, and market demand. While some pilot projects and small-scale commercial efforts are already underway, widespread adoption will depend on improved cultivation systems, better algae strains, and lower processing costs. As innovation continues and demand for low-carbon fuels rises, the economic case is strengthening.

What are the environmental benefits of using algae for energy?

Algae-based energy production offers multiple environmental advantages:

• Reduces dependence on traditional fuels
• Sequesters carbon dioxide during growth
• Produces fewer emissions during combustion
• Can be grown using wastewater or non-potable water, aiding water treatment

These benefits make algae a compelling candidate for supporting climate goals while supporting industrial processes.

Which sectors could benefit most from algae-based energy?

Industries with high carbon footprints or those looking for sustainable raw materials stand to benefit most. This includes:

• Transport and logistics: Especially aviation and shipping, where liquid biofuels are essential.
• Agriculture: For use in sustainable fertilisers or livestock feed.
• Cosmetics and pharmaceuticals: As a source of natural ingredients.
• Water utilities: In wastewater treatment applications.

What’s next for algae in the energy transition?

Ongoing research is focused on enhancing algae strains, improving growth efficiency, and lowering production costs. Scientists are exploring selective breeding and genetic engineering to maximise energy yield and resistance to environmental stress. The development of modular, scalable cultivation systems is also a major focus, opening the door to wider adoption across the globe.