Sähköpolttoaine

Sähköpolttoaine, also known as e-fuel or synthetic fuel, is a type of fuel produced using renewable electricity. The process typically involves electrolysis of water to produce hydrogen and then combining this hydrogen with carbon dioxide captured from the air or industrial processes. This synthetic hydrocarbon fuel is chemically similar to conventional fossil fuels like gasoline, diesel, and kerosene.

The primary advantage of sähköpolttoaine lies in its potential to be carbon-neutral. When the fuel is combusted, it releases the same amount of carbon dioxide that was originally captured to produce it, creating a closed carbon loop. This makes it a promising alternative for sectors that are difficult to electrify, such as aviation, shipping, and heavy-duty transport, where battery technology may not be suitable due to weight or range limitations.

The production of sähköpolttoaine is currently energy-intensive and expensive, requiring significant amounts of renewable electricity and specialized facilities. However, ongoing research and development aim to improve efficiency and reduce costs. Its widespread adoption depends on the availability of affordable renewable energy and the scaling up of production capacity. Sähköpolttoaine can often be used in existing combustion engines with little or no modification, offering a pathway to decarbonize transportation infrastructure without a complete overhaul.