eFuel Alliance Advocates for Synthetic Fuels Amid Global Crises

The eFuel Alliance has made a strong case for the importance of synthetic fuels, known as eFuels, during challenging times at the recent eFuel Conference in Vienna. These fuels, produced using electricity, are viewed as a crucial component for Europe's defense efforts and achieving climate goals. The organization insists that eFuels should be recognized as a viable alternative alongside electric mobility.

According to industry expert Corentin Prié from Porsche Consulting, even by 2040, approximately 55% of today's demand for liquid fuels is expected to persist. He noted that 37% of passenger cars, 62% of trucks and buses, as well as nearly all aircraft and ships, will still rely on combustion engines.

Shena Britzen, head of the hydrogen program at Rheinmetall, a German technology and defense company, emphasized the strategic necessity of synthetic fuels. She pointed out that in scenarios of crisis or war, the existing electrical grid and oil imports could be particularly vulnerable.

Jochen Danninger, Secretary-General of the Austrian Chamber of Commerce, remarked that the energy transition in Austria is not only an ecological concern but also an economic imperative. He highlighted that eFuels create value, secure jobs, and open export opportunities in a global market worth billions.

Stephan Schwarzer, Secretary-General of the eFuel Alliance in Austria, added that eFuels are not a niche product but rather an essential element for climate protection, job preservation, and energy security.

Despite the debate surrounding the high production costs, limited availability, and low energy efficiency of eFuels for passenger vehicles, they are considered a promising solution for heavy transport, shipping, and aviation. The production process involves splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen through electrolysis. The resulting hydrogen is then combined with carbon dioxide and transformed into synthetic gasoline, diesel, or kerosene using the Fischer-Tropsch synthesis method.