The future of energy production looks much more diverse than ever before. Traditionally, industries have used oil and gas to power their equipment, but newer fuel types are quickly changing how things are done.
Renewables such as wind, solar, and geothermal are excellent fuel sources, but they can’t be dumped in a fuel tank. Discover a few of the alternative fuel sources used across various industries.
Biodiesel
Diesel vehicles offer many advantages over their gas-powered counterparts. One significant benefit is that diesel fuel can easily be replaced with more sustainable alternatives. Biodiesel is a waste-derived product made from domestic resources, such as restaurant grease, animal fat, and natural oils.
Biodiesel burns cleanly, reducing emissions and improving air quality. It’s also easy to source and offers drivers better fuel economy. However, because it’s made from natural products, it can grow mold if left to sit for too long in the heat.
Corn Ethanol
Ethanol is a form of alcohol that can be used as an additive in gasoline, improving fuel efficiency and reducing emissions. Corn ethanol can significantly reduce the amount of greenhouse gases that vehicles produce, making it an excellent choice across multiple industries.
While corn ethanol is a much cleaner fuel than gasoline, it has its downsides. The biggest problem with corn ethanol is that it requires large amounts of corn production, which can limit its environmental benefits. Corn ethanol also requires a complex manufacturing process, further increasing its carbon footprint.
Hydrogen
Hydrogen has the potential to eliminate emissions completely. Green hydrogen production works by separating the hydrogen atom into protons and electrons, generating electricity in the process. This means the only byproduct is water and heat, making this option incredibly sustainable.
The downside to hydrogen as a fuel source is the manufacturing costs. Because there’s less energy in hydrogen by volume, a greater amount is needed to power a vehicle, making it more challenging to store and deliver enough fuel for consumers.
Making the World More Sustainable
Fuel production is a massive industry, and the fuel created helps businesses all over the world produce goods and deliver them to their destinations. Understanding a few of the alternative fuel sources used across various industries will allow you to make informed fuel decisions that could help you save money.
