Visit lowimpactliving.com (see Resources) for information on solar power. Harnessing the sun’s energy is not as expensive as it once was. Solar power involves minor maintenance, is reliable and costs pennies, compared to conventional electricity costs. Mexico receives plenty of sunshine; therefore, power is a certainty even during storms when “the grid” is down.
Look into the Magenn wind turbine company's humanitarian project in Timaz, Mexico. The company commissioned a solar-powered water pump for the residents of the village in the Yucatan region of Mexico. Wind generators are another power source for off-the-grid living in Mexico. The wind power is generated by the forces of nature and collected and stored in a series of batteries for later use.
Check the local rainfall in your prospective area of Mexico, to research the possibility of rain water harvesting. This may be done on a large or small scale, depending on your needs. On a small scale, consider a simple downspout extending downwards from the gutter of your home, into a series of water barrels—55-gallon water barrels are commonly used for this practice. The water may be used for garden watering, toilet flushing, floor washing and general household use. Water purification tablets or a UV system will be necessary to make the rainwater potable or fit for drinking.
Build your off-the-grid home with straw bales. Straw is a renewable, sustainable, green building material with superior insulating capabilities up to 50 R-Value, is soundproof, earthy, aesthetically pleasing and natural. Contrary to popular belief; straw bale homes are extremely fireproof and vermin-proof. Straw bale homes are easy to heat and naturally cool in the summertime. Passive solar may be utilized during winter months using the sun’s low rays for passive heat.