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Future of mobility: Freiberg develops synthetic fuels!
Christian Hirte discusses synthetic fuels and political framework conditions at the TU Freiberg - Germany on the way to CO₂-neutral mobility.
Future of mobility: Freiberg develops synthetic fuels!
In an exciting exchange at the TU Bergakademie Freiberg, Christian Hirte, Parliamentary State Secretary at the Federal Ministry of Transport, presented the future of synthetic fuels. The dialogue revolved around the market ramp-up of these innovative fuels and the necessary political and economic conditions for their success. The focus was particularly on technologies CAC MethaFuel® and CAC MethaJet®, which form central elements of the planned large-scale German eFuel One project.
This project will include the first large-scale industrial gasoline synthesis plant in Germany and aims to bring climate-friendly, CO₂-neutral fuels to agriculture and industry. The technological foundations for this have already been laid, but in order for these to become tangible, a stable political framework and investment incentives are needed. “There is something to be said when it comes to the availability and use of renewable energies in the transport sector,” explained Hirte during his tour of the Reichen Zeche test facilities.
A look at the climate goals
The transport sector has a key role in the fight against climate change, as it causes around 20% of CO2 emissions in Germany. Modern and environmentally friendly technologies are essential in order to achieve the ambitious climate goals, which call for the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55% by 2030 compared to 1990. Loud Synfuel These technologies, which are based on renewable energies, can make a significant contribution to improving air quality.
As part of the 2015 Paris Climate Agreement, 195 countries committed to limiting global warming to below 2°C compared to pre-industrial times. Although the implementation of e-fuels initially requires a change, it offers the opportunity to continue using existing vehicles with combustion engines. “It’s good business for everyone involved,” says Hirte.
Alternatives at a glance
A misunderstanding that needs to be cleared up: Alternative fuels are not only a supplement to electromobility, they are also invaluable in areas that are difficult to electrify, such as heavy freight transport or shipping. The BMV has already taken the first steps to promote the development of renewable fuels. The ministry plans to save 10 million tonnes of CO2 through these measures by 2030. These innovative fuels are usually made from renewable electricity or biomass and can be used in existing vehicles either directly or after minor modification.
The federal government also supports the development and production of alternative fuels through the Climate and Transformation Fund in order to advance innovative manufacturing processes. Ongoing projects also include a research and demonstration facility for electricity-based kerosene, which will help demonstrate the feasibility and accelerate the market entry of such technologies.
With all of these efforts, Germany has the opportunity to position itself as a leading player in the field of synthetic fuels and thus make a significant contribution to climate protection and mobility of the future. Ultimately, it is not just a question of technology, but also a question of the will to actively tackle the challenges of the future.