In My Opinion, the first move in energy independence is analyzing what one is using and lowering those needs as much as possible. It is claimed it is 5 times cheaper to conserve energy with efficient appliancesa and lights than to make it with renewable resources.
In milder climates, batch type water heaters are about as simple and efficient as one can build. If you have a well, a Water-Pumping windmill to an overhaed tank will supply water and pressure with no expendure of electricity and no need for batteries and pumps to keep pressure.
There are good sites for the F&P windmill. In a search of this board, you will find them. In the process of the search, you will learn a lot more than if folks supply you with a link.
Good Luck,
Ron