Liquid Biofuels Market Forecasts to 2030 – Global Analysis By Product (Bioethanol, Biodiesel and Other Products), Feedstock, Process, Application and By Geography
According to Stratistics MRC, the Global Liquid Biofuels Market is accounted for $151.8 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach $307.3 billion by 2030 growing at a CAGR of 10.6% during the forecast period. Liquid biofuels are renewable fuels derived from organic materials, such as plants and algae, undergoing processes like fermentation or transesterification. These biofuels, including biodiesel and ethanol, can be used as substitutes for conventional fossil fuels in transportation. Unlike fossil fuels, liquid biofuels release carbon dioxide during combustion, but the carbon emitted is part of the natural carbon cycle, making them a potentially more sustainable alternative.
According to a study completed by Purdue University, on an average the yearly price of ethanol dropped down to to$0.82/ gallon in March 2020 from $1.32/ gallon in December 2019 owing to rapid drop in demand for transport services.
Market Dynamics:Driver:Increasing demand for transportation fuels
With heightened awareness of environmental concerns, there's a significant shift towards biofuels derived from renewable resources. This increased demand is driven by both regulatory initiatives promoting cleaner energy solutions and consumer preferences for eco-friendly alternatives. As the world strives to reduce carbon emissions, liquid biofuels are gaining prominence as a viable and accessible option to meet the rising need for transportation fuels. The market is experiencing a surge in demand for transportation fuels due to the growing emphasis on sustainable energy sources.
Restraint:Infrastructure challenges
Insufficient production facilities hinder scalability, while limited distribution networks impede widespread adoption. The existing infrastructure designed for conventional fuels may not be compatible with biofuels, requiring substantial investments for retrofitting. Storage and transportation logistics present further hurdles, as biofuels often have different properties than traditional fuels. The market faces infrastructure challenges such as limited distribution networks, inadequate storage facilities, and the need for specialized transportation infrastructure.
Opportunity:Government policies and incentives
Government policies and incentives play a crucial role in the growth of the market. Many countries are implementing supportive measures to promote the production and use of biofuels, aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enhance energy security. Common incentives include tax credits, subsidies, and mandates for blending biofuels with conventional fuels. Additionally, research funding and regulatory frameworks contribute to market expansion, fostering a transition towards sustainable and renewable liquid biofuels.
Threat:Feedstock availability and cost
Feedstocks, such as biomass and agricultural residues, influence the economic feasibility of biofuel production. Factors like crop yields, land use, and competing demands for agricultural products play a crucial role in determining feedstock availability. Additionally, fluctuations in feedstock prices can impact the overall cost of liquid biofuels, affecting market competitiveness. The availability and cost of feedstocks are the factors significantly hampering the growth of the market.
Covid-19 Impact:The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted the liquid biofuels market, leading to disruptions in supply chains, reduced demand for transportation fuels, and delayed investments in biofuel projects. Lockdowns and travel restrictions resulted in a decline in fuel consumption, affecting ethanol and biodiesel production. However, the crisis has also underscored the importance of sustainable energy sources, fostering potential for biofuels in a post-pandemic recovery as the focus on environmental sustainability grows.
The bioethanol segment is expected to be the largest during the forecast period
The bioethanol segment is expected to be the largest during the forecast period. Derived from renewable resources such as corn, sugarcane, or cellulosic biomass, bioethanol reduces greenhouse gas emissions and promotes environmental sustainability. Widely used as a transportation fuel, its popularity stems from its compatibility with existing infrastructure. As the world seeks cleaner energy solutions, its prominence in the liquid biofuels market continues to grow, contributing to a more eco-friendly and resilient energy landscape.
The transesterification segment is expected to have the highest CAGR during the forecast period
The transesterification segment is expected to have the highest CAGR during the forecast period. This chemical process involves converting triglycerides, typically derived from plant oils or animal fats, into esters and glycerol. It enhances the efficiency of liquid biofuel production, promoting the use of renewable resources and reducing dependence on conventional fossil fuels, contributing to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly energy landscape.
Region with largest share:North America is projected to hold the largest market share during the forecast period owing to the abundance of feedstock and arable area for biofuel production. Government initiatives promoting biofuel usage, along with rising environmental concerns, are key factors propelling market expansion. The region's commitment to reducing carbon emissions further boosts the adoption of liquid biofuels, positioning as a significant player in the global transition towards renewable energy solutions.
Region with highest CAGR:Asia Pacific is projected to hold the highest CAGR over the forecast period due to increasing environmental concerns and a focus on sustainable energy sources. Governments are implementing supportive policies and incentives, fostering the production and consumption of biofuels. Technological advancements and collaborations within the industry further contribute to market expansion. The rising demand for cleaner alternatives to traditional fuels positions liquid biofuels as a crucial player in the region's energy landscape, with the potential to reduce carbon emissions and promote a more sustainable future.
Key players in the marketSome of the key players in Liquid Biofuels market include Petrobras, Abengoa Bioenergia, Bunge North America Inc., Archer Daniels Midland Company, Gevo, Green Plains, Wilmar International, Algenol, Pacific Ethanol Inc., Valero Energy Corp., Cargill, Neste Corporation, Renewable Energy Group Inc., BlueFire Renewables and Aceites Manuelita S.A.
Key Developments:In May 2022, Fulcrum BioEnergy Inc. announced that the Sierra Biofuels plant, the world's first facility to convert landfill waste into renewable transportation fuels, has successfully completed its commissioning and operations phase.
In January 2022, Renewable Energy Group, Inc. (REG) announced that it had acquired the remaining 50% ownership stake in Petrotec AG, a leading supplier of renewable diesel to the Swiss market. The acquisition was aimed at expanding REG's presence in the European market and increasing its production capacity for renewable fuels.
Products Covered:
• Bioethanol
• Biodiesel
• Other Products
Feedstocks Covered:
• Vegetable Oils
• Sugar Crops
• Starch Crops
• Animal Fats
Process Covered:
• Transesterification
• Fermentation
Applications Covered:
• Thermal Heating
• Transportation Fuel
• Power Generation
• Other Applications
Regions Covered:
• North America
US
Canada
Mexico
• Europe
Germany
UK
Italy
France
Spain
Rest of Europe
• Asia Pacific
Japan
China
India
Australia
New Zealand
South Korea
Rest of Asia Pacific
• South America
Argentina
Brazil
Chile
Rest of South America
• Middle East & Africa
Saudi Arabia
UAE
Qatar
South Africa
Rest of Middle East & Africa
What our report offers:- Market share assessments for the regional and country-level segments
- Strategic recommendations for the new entrants
- Covers Market data for the years 2021, 2022, 2023, 2026, and 2030
- Market Trends (Drivers, Constraints, Opportunities, Threats, Challenges, Investment Opportunities, and recommendations)
- Strategic recommendations in key business segments based on the market estimations
- Competitive landscaping mapping the key common trends
- Company profiling with detailed strategies, financials, and recent developments
- Supply chain trends mapping the latest technological advancements