If you're looking for an alternative way to heat your home, you may consider a corn stove. Corn stoves work similar to pellet stoves, but, as you might guess, burn corn instead of wood. Depending on where you live, corn may be less expensive than pellets or heating with traditional resources (natural gas/electric). Definitely compare fuels in your area before deciding on an insert, boiler, or free-standing unit, and also make sure to inquire as to availability.
As you can see from the picture, a corn stove insert can fit into your hearth just as well as a wood insert. Some manufacturers use faux logs in their stoves (much the same as with gas inserts) in order to simulate the look of a wood-burning fireplace. In the background, though, corn is providing the heat for your home.
Since corn is an easily renewable resource, many consider it more environmentally friendly than wood. According to the manufacturers, it burns more cleanly as well (though you may want to do some independent research and get the lowdown from unbiased sources). Here are a couple articles worth checking out:
Cost of Corn Stove Inserts
Corn stoves and inserts are comparable in cost to wood-burning and gas units. Expect to pay $800-$2,000 for a new unit (plus installation costs).
Since the cost of corn varies a lot from place to place, you should look at prices and availability in your area to determine whether or not you can save money by switching to this alternative fuel.