Solar or Geothermal energy to replace 100 percent of all electricity in house?

We have a 100% electric house. We live in a rural Texas town. We are upset about the cost of electricity and we were wondering what the cost would be to change from Electricity to solar power or geothermal energy to use in our home? I am also wondering what is the cheapest way to do this as we don’t have any extra money at all? Are there pricing plans available?

I think you’ll need to save up money to invest in a system. Some things cost more, some cost less. In order, this is what I would do:

1) Better insulation for the house, awnings to keep out the sun in summer, double-pane windows, etc. Super-insulate everything. Excellent payback for the cost.

2) Ground-based heat pump to replace the air conditioner and heater. This can cool in the summer, heat in the winter, for less money.

3) Solar water heater. That should be a net win over your electric heater. You could still keep the electric on standby in case there are too many cloudy days.

4) Solar cooker. Very cheap, if you’re willing to cook your stew outside on sunny days.

5) Solar electric system. This is the last step, slowest payback, biggest upfront investment.

Solar Energy and Solar Panels for Your House — Pricing (part one)

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