Around the world, the drive toward cleaner, more sustainable energy is reshaping how we fuel our vehicles. From electric cars to biodiesel, countries are experimenting with new ways to reduce emissions and dependence on fossil fuels. But what about South Africa? How realistic is the idea of green fuel here, and what developments are actually on the horizon? 

Let’s take a closer look at what is happening in the world of biofuels, ethanol, and other alternative fuels – and what this could mean for South African motorists. 

Understanding Green Fuels 

Green fuel refers to energy sources that are renewable and have a smaller carbon footprint than traditional petrol and diesel. The most common types include: 

• Bioethanol: Produced from crops such as sugarcane, maize, and sorghum. It can be blended with petrol to reduce emissions. 

• Biodiesel: Made from vegetable oils, animal fats, or recycled cooking oil. It can be used in diesel engines, sometimes without modification. 

• Biogas: Created from organic waste through a process called anaerobic digestion, which captures methane for use as fuel. 

Globally, these fuels are already in wide use. For instance, Brazil runs most of its vehicles on ethanol blends, while Europe has large-scale biodiesel production from grapeseed and used cooking oil. 

South Africa’s Progress So Far 

South Africa has flirted with biofuels for years but has yet to see large-scale adoption. Back in 2007, the Government introduced a biofuels industrial strategy that aimed to replace up to 2% of national fuel consumption with biofuels. However, progress has been slow due to a few challenges.  

For starters, we have to consider the cost of production compared to fossil fuels, as well as the competition between food crops and fuel crops. Notably, there is also the barrier of regulatory uncertainty and infrastructure limitations. All that being said, there have been some promising developments.  

Several pilot projects have tested the viability of ethanol-blended petrol, particularly in sugarcane-producing regions like KwaZulu-Natal. Meanwhile, local energy startups have been exploring the use of waste-based biodiesel, turning used cooking oil into usable fuel for fleets and public transport. 

These small-scale efforts demonstrate potential – but scaling them nationally remains a complex task. 

What’s Holding Green Fuels Back? 

In South Africa, we don’t merely contend with the challenges previously addressed. We certainly have a lack of clear, long-term policy direction which has made investors cautious. However, there are additional obstacles that we must also face up to when it comes to the mainstream adoption of biofuels and ethanol.  

Let’s review our infrastructure, for instance. Our existing refineries and distribution networks are designed for traditional fuels and switching would require costly upgrades. We also have to be aware of the fact that when oil prices are low, biofuels become less competitive and the incentive to pursue these sources fades. Importantly, producing enough raw material (like sugarcane or maize) without affecting food prices is tricky. 

As a result, while the potential for renewable fuels exists, the industry needs stronger policy backing, investment incentives, and public-private collaboration to really take off. 

Looking Ahead: What Is Coming Next 

Despite the challenges, momentum is slowly building. Globally, fuel producers are being pushed to decarbonise, and South Africa is expected to follow suit.  

Some of the most likely developments on the horizon include: 

• Low-level ethanol blends: The introduction of E5 or E10 fuel (5–10% ethanol mixed with petrol) could become more common in the next few years. 

• Expanded biodiesel trials: Particularly in logistics and municipal fleets where fuel use is predictable. 

• Green hydrogen: South Africa has begun exploring hydrogen production using renewable energy, which could support cleaner fuel technologies in the long term. 

These shifts may not happen overnight, but they are signs that the fuel landscape is evolving. For motorists, this means what you put in your tank today could look very different by the end of the decade. 

Feeling Informed? 

While South Africa’s journey toward green fuel is still in its early stages, it is clear that the conversation is gaining traction. Biofuels and ethanol have the potential to make a real impact – provided there is the right mix of policy, infrastructure, and consumer awareness to support them. 

For now, the best way motorists can contribute to a cleaner future is through mindful driving. This means maintaining their vehicles regularly, reduce idling, and using fuel-efficient habits that lower consumption and emissions. 

If you’re curious about fuel efficiency, the AA Inform fuel cost calculator can help you estimate your average consumption and plan smarter trips – all while doing your bit for a greener South Africa.