While traditional power grids are generally reliable, they can suffer from catastrophic blackouts due to natural disasters or security breaches. To address this, micro-grids are being developed as resilient and flexible power systems that can operate independently or alongside the traditional grid. These systems are seen as efficient solutions for organisations and communities needing dependable energy, less risk of blackouts, lower costs, and a reduced reliance on fossil fuels.

With advances in battery technology, community-scale micro-grids could become cost-effective soon. Navigant Research predicts the energy storage market for micro-grids will grow from $662 million in 2014 to $4 billion by 2024.