[GSBN] ground source heat pumps

[BuildersWithoutBorders]

Dear colleagues -

Can someone shed some light on so-called geothermal heating systems, 
and their cost-effectiveness for a typical home?

I imagine the pay-back in energy saved has something to do with how 
many heating degree days in a specific climate.  But then, I 
understand they can also be reversed for cooling.

This seems like an expensive technology that is dependent on 
electrical service... can it be powered by solar/

Thanks for any insight offered.


Sincerely,
Catherine Wanek
Co-director
Builders Without Borders
<mail at builderswithoutborders.org>
www.builderswithoutborders.org
575-895-5400