Howdy! I'm in Pittsboro, NC. We have a house built out of compressed earth block (CEB). The blocks were made with soil from Chatham county NC. The material has been very energy efficient and performed very well in the summer with minimal air conditioning (we did use a dehumidifier from time to time - I don't think it can be avoided in NC). We have radiant floor heat and don't have to use the heat pump. Stove could be another option for you. The people who supplied the blocks were Dig Southeast (www.digsoutheast.com). Earth friendly material. Structures can be made small or big. We have a more traditional home in appearance, as well as running water and power. CEB might be an option to consider.