These are interesting ideas, but for me solar still remains the key.
Hydro is out- no water. Also, mechanical maintenance is required.
(I'm ok with maintenance, mind you, it's just if I can limit it I would prefer to)
Other wind options are interesting, but come back to maintenance and (an often overlooked element) noise.

I don't live at my ranch and there's nothing there that requires energy at the moment, so all this (from my perspective) is just so much mental masturbation (aka daydreaming).

The OP asks for info on solar home options and all I can really say is that google is your friend.
That, and a subscription to Home Power Magazine.