ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS OF EFUELS AND THEIR COMPARISON WITH ELECTRIC VEHICLES: EVIDENCE FROM THE HARU ONI PROJECT

Abstract

The global energy transition requires technologies capable of reducing greenhouse gas emissions while maintaining energy security and transportation efficiency. In this context, renewable synthetic fuels (eFuels) have emerged as a promising alternative for decarbonizing the transportation sector, particularly in segments where direct electrification remains technically challenging. This study aimed to analyze the environmental impacts of eFuels and compare them with battery electric vehicles, using the Haru Oni Project in Chile as a reference. The research is characterized as an exploratory bibliographic and documentary study based on the critical analysis of scientific articles, technical reports, and institutional publications. The findings indicate that eFuels have significant potential to reduce net carbon dioxide emissions when produced from green hydrogen and carbon captured from the atmosphere, while also enabling the use of existing fuel distribution infrastructure. However, they exhibit lower overall energy efficiency than battery electric vehicles, which, in turn, face environmental challenges associated with critical mineral extraction, battery manufacturing, and end-of-life recycling. It is concluded that both technologies present advantages and limitations and should be regarded as complementary solutions for transport decarbonization, contributing to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals related to clean energy, responsible consumption, and climate action.