Which would be better, solar panels or geothermal for a home?

Question

im looking into installing either solar panels or geothermal or both for a home. do they both supply electricty? which would have more benefit (dont mind the cost)? any information or websites you know of would be great

Answer 1

Unless you know for certain that you'll be able to tap into a "geothermal" source I'm pretty sure Solar Panels are going to be the best way to go. Benefit wise there are usually State and Federal tax breaks on Solar power, not sure if there are any for home based geothermal.

Answer 2

geothermal energy will only bring u heat at +/- 65 degrees so solar panels for heat to raise temperature if insulation is poor so all three may be needed or get a good design for your home go under ground seems best.popa

Answer 3

Geo will give a much better return on your money and will work anywhere. Solar works pretty well in the southwest where the sun shines most of the time, but is pretty expensive power even there, unless you can get some subsidies.

If money is no object, then do both. Both will on save burning fossil fuels. Also go ahead and add a wind turbine as well.

Answer 4

If you haven't built your home yet yes, theoretically you can do geothermal, but takes a LOT of space & you need a geoteck study to see if its viable where your home is.  Never seen it in residential. Go solar.