Remember you are using debt to make this investment, not reserves  sitting in your bank account so I recommend a more conservative investment approach. 

However, for a commercial property or a commercial residential (5+ unit) property value is based on the income approach and reducing expenses in this case by producing electricity factors into that math and very well might increase the valuation enough to make sense.

Since I have been semi successful with this approach I can see it working. 

It’s a challenging time to start, but real estate can still be a solid investment if approached wisely.

I'm curious if you have any suggestions on lending options that I may not have found or approaches that I should consider.

Quote from @John Underwood: Thanks John, I like your simple approach, I agree with that.

It seems like your advice focuses on building a strategic and scalable approach to real estate investing—a growth-oriented mindset. 

I love your approach of being conservative with underwriting and planning for the worst while hoping for the best!

A balanced approach, combining financing with a cash reserve for stability, maximizes tax efficiency, inflation protection, and aligns with your goal of retiring sooner.This post does not create a CPA-Client relationship.

My biggest tip is to save way more that you make and then buy a 2-4 unit building and use a 203k or homestyle renovation loan to do some rehab and add some instant equity.Also, Network as much as possible and get comfortable approach any one and asking lots of questions.