@bens.
I loved your story. Spent time on Okinawa doing a survey of the effects of brine discharge on the reef system from the desalination plant there. That was the sunabi seawall. Great dive by the way. Also had a girl there. An english teacher at the air force base there. She was the last white woman I ever went out with. Met a Dominicana when I left and I've never looked back.
Contrary to what you will be reading, jobs are available all around the Caribbean. I don't know what your MOS was, but you need to look for American companies doing business down here. Phamacutical manufacturing, and industrial construction are good areas here. You have to think outside of the box keeping in mind that American companies are looking for Americans that they can trust to get things done in an abnormal environment. FYI, ALL the islands down here are abnormal regarding work ethic. Use that to your advantage when talking to the corporations that you find. Spanish is a big plus. I'd start learning rapidly if I were you.
Not going to say anything about the woman you met. No need to as I'm sure you have seen and know horror stories of men in third world countries. I will tell you that I love Dominicam women. They are absolutely wonderful. I also like your idea of a getaway plan. Definately have a way out if needed. The solar panel question is easy. Penny concious and pound foolish pretty much sums it up.
Good luck to you. Ever forward!