@Ivan_Ivanovich @EvilSandmich @PoalackJokes88 @PunishedD

So, any energy system based on fully renewable energy would have to be carbon neutral, but not in a way where you care about absolute levels of atmospheric carbon. Carbon is an energy carrier in every form that isn't CO2. Anything that isn't effectively carbon neutral is non-renewable.

It is easier because it isn't so concerned with eliminating carbon from its very useful place as a dense energy carrier, so you aren't so fixated on things like battery electrics and make more use of synthetic fuels and biomass-powered steam.

As for those things that are currently produced from petroleum, there are known synthetic chemical pathways for pretty much every one of those hydrocarbons starting from carbon monoxide or acetylene. The reason they aren't in use now is because they cost more than using petroleum.