Certain embodiments provide a method for treating a hydrocarbon containing
formation. The method includes applying electrical current to one or more
electrical conductors located in an opening in the formation to provide
an electrically resistive heat output. The heat is allowed to transfer
from the electrical conductors to a part of the formation containing
hydrocarbons so that a viscosity of fluids in the part and at or near the
opening in the formation is reduced. Gas is provided at one or more
locations in the opening such that the fluids are lifted in the opening
towards the surface of the formation. The fluids are produced through the
opening.