I think if the counter space is not functional where it is, the existing amount is not relevant but if you were concerned about storage you could always put a cabinet above the fridge and/or get taller uppers

What do they do when there’s not enough solar energy to turn on the lights, run the fridge, or heat&cool the place?

Fridge for $100-$150. 

It had multiple families living in it when I purchased it: full of trash, furniture and decomposing food in fridge.

In addition to the full bath, there's a "kitchen" (sink, stovetop, and fridge; no stove) and washer + dryer hookups.There's also a shed on the property that was converted into a office.

The ones over by the fridge are far enough away from everything else that if you just painted them, they should be fine. 

We include range, dishwasher, fridge.

With exception to fridges, stoves, dishwasher etc. 

I remind them that I own a house and I don't get a break in my mortgage payment when the fridge breaks or the shower has to be renovated. 

We are also replacing all the kitchen appliances with a new stainless steel package (fridge, dishwasher, range, and built-in microwave) in each unit.