The reason I'm asking is that, to me, all the ways to get into solar seem really expensive.

Even what many people online call 'cheap' is often beyond my budget.

Is it more about doing a DIY setup, finding recycled solar equipment, or are there other affordable options? Should I just start the self-teaching route and do the work there? I am getting information overload, so I'm not sure where to start.

For context, I'm an older person with an income of less than $25K a year. I work as a teacher's aide in an underprivileged elementary school. So the salary won't increase.

I like what I do, so I'm not complaining, just giving you background to avoid the "get a higher paying job" replies, because I feel the work I do is important to the kids and I want to keep doing it for a little longer.

Is solar realistically within my reach?