One of the easiest ways to get into solar power, is to use it where there isn't any electricity.
That may sound obvious and perhaps a bit skewed, but really, here are some ideas that will get you into using solar without a huge cash expenditure, and you'll be able to take it from there.
For all of you sportsmen out there, your hunting cabin will never be the same if you put up a solar panel or two, invest in a couple of batteries, add a heater and then some light bulbs.
Depending on how many panels you want to put up, or how many batteries you care to add to the system, you could have a pretty deluxe solar powered hunting lodge in the middle of no where.
Think about this: When the fire goes out in the fireplace, the 12 volt electric heaters kick on and make sure you are warm all night long.
Instead of fumbling with flashlights in the middle of the night, just pull a chain on an overhead fixture, and you have instant light.
You could even run a wire to the outhouse and make sure you don't miss a page of Outdoor Magazine.
Ice fishing shacks work the same way.
With all that open lake around, it's the perfect place for a solar panel, a battery and a heater.
No more messing around with lighters and kerosene or gas, just flip the switch on the 12 volt heater, and you are warm and comfy with no hassle at all.
Backyard sheds can be easily wired to a solar cell battery combo for light.
Your roof can be turned into a solar cell collection grid to power multiple lights, heaters and anything else 12 volts, to give you a workshop, heated storage, or just a place to hang out.
These are great ideas to get started with solar, and your alternative energy aspirations will be able to grow from here!