Great topic! One key problem I've noticed is the lack of awareness and understanding of the benefits of energy storage systems among potential users and stakeholders. Educating the market about the long-term savings and reliability that these systems can offer could really help increase adoption. As for solutions, perhaps creating partnerships with local governments and renewable energy...

I would add that grid-tied is helpful for emergencies, but a generator can provide the same benefits. There is also a "non-export" grid tied solar interconnection which is where all commercial solar in CA is headed. Under non-export, commercial customers are not subject to the new solar public works law (AB 2143).

"Easiest and cheapest" may not actually be what you want with respect to microgrids. For example, the main step in turning a solar system into a microgrid is selecting an energy storage and management system (a home battery with an energy controller). You usually want these to be high-quality, long-lasting products from a reputable company that will be around to honor their warranty. This...

I'd love to hear why people think microgrids are worth the investment. I've done some initial research and they are expensive!

I'd love to hear from people who have microgrids at their homes about what their biggest challenges were in the process. I'm a contractor who sell/installs microgrids for homeowners. We're trying to help relieve the pain points for people and make the process easier. Thank you in advance for sharing!

Love this. We might look into this for our kids school. Thanks for posting

I would like to make our property energy independent but don't know what control system to get to create a microgrid.

Interested to hear partnership ideas (private, government, etc) to advance the growth of distributed solar.