 Microalgae have the potential to produce large quantities of biodiesel without competing for arable land or biodiverse natural landscapes. The key factor is the ability of certain strains of algae to accumulate lipids, which can then be extracted and converted into fuel. To achieve this, researchers have focused on developing techniques to increase the amount of lipids produced by algae, including nutrient stress, osmotic stress, radiation, pH, temperature, heavy metals, and other chemicals. Additionally, genetic strategies are being explored to increase the amount of lipids produced and make them more inducible. This article was authored by Pierre M. Schenck, Kalpesh K. Sharma, and Holger Schumann.