sähköpolttoaineiden

Sähköpolttoaineet, also known as e-fuels or synthetic fuels, are liquid or gaseous fuels produced using renewable electricity. The core process involves electrolysis of water to produce hydrogen, which is then combined with captured carbon dioxide (CO2) through a chemical synthesis process, such as the Fischer-Tropsch process. The CO2 can be sourced from industrial emissions or directly from the atmosphere (Direct Air Capture).

The primary advantage of sähköpolttoaineet is their potential to be carbon-neutral. When used in combustion engines, the CO2 released is theoretically equivalent to the CO2 captured during their production, creating a closed carbon cycle. This makes them a potential solution for decarbonizing sectors that are difficult to electrify, such as aviation, shipping, and heavy-duty transport.

Unlike battery-electric vehicles, e-fuel powered vehicles can utilize existing infrastructure and internal combustion engines, potentially easing the transition away from fossil fuels. However, the production of sähköpolttoaineet is currently energy-intensive and expensive. Significant amounts of renewable electricity are required, and the efficiency of the conversion processes is a key challenge.

Research and development are ongoing to improve the efficiency and reduce the cost of sähköpolttoaine production. While they are not yet a widespread commercial solution, they are considered a promising technology for achieving climate goals in specific applications.