<p>Limited genetic tools for non-model bacteria are one of the limiting factors for genetic studies. This review compiles genetic tools used for three non-model alpha-proteobacteria, such as <i>Zymomonas mobilis</i>, <i>Cereibacter</i> (<i>Rhodobacter) sphaeroides</i>, and <i>Novosphingobium aromaticivorans</i>, which hold significant potential to produce industrially essential bioenergy compounds due to their distinctive metabolic pathways and resilience in extreme environments. Each of these strains has a unique genetic profile that enables them to efficiently carry out key reactions relevant to producing bioenergy compounds, such as converting sugars into bioenergy compounds and breaking down lignotoxins. Genetic tools can further optimize these strains for enhanced bioenergy compound production. This review explores the metabolic advantages of these organisms. It highlights the available array of genetic toolkits that can be shared among them to unlock their full potential for sustainable biofuel production.</p> Graphical abstract <p></p>