Using renewables or nuclear power to extract fossil fuels amounts to something almost like indirect energy conversion/storage. It can also work between fossil sources. I've heard the tar sands described as a massive indirect gas liquefaction plant -- it's economical because direct GTL is less efficient than gas -> steam -> bitumen -> liquids.
Using renewables or nuclear power to extract fossil fuels amounts to something almost like indirect energy conversion/storage. It can also work between fossil sources. I've heard the tar sands described as a massive indirect gas liquefaction plant -- it's economical because direct GTL is less efficient than gas -> steam -> bitumen -> liquids.