Fuelling a Clean Future: A Systematic Review of Techno-Economic and Life Cycle Assessments in E-Fuel Development

Abstract

The transition to sustainable energy has ushered in the era of electrofuels (e-fuels), which are synthesised using electricity from renewable sources, water, and CO2 as a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels. This paper presents a systematic review of the techno-economic (TEA) and life cycle assessments (LCAs) of e-fuel production. We critically evaluate advancements in production technologies, economic feasibility, environmental implications, and potential societal impacts. Our findings indicate that while e-fuels offer a promising solution to reduce carbon emissions, their economic viability depends on optimising production processes and reducing input material costs. The LCA highlights the necessity of using renewable energy for hydrogen production to ensure the genuine sustainability of e-fuels. This review also identifies knowledge gaps, suggesting areas for future research and policy intervention. As the world moves toward a greener future, understanding the holistic implications of e-fuels becomes paramount. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview to guide stakeholders in their decision-making processes.

Keywords

• e-fuels
• renewable green fuels
• synthetic fuels
• sustainable energy sources
• sustainable aviation fuel (SAF)
• hydrocarbon fuel