When R.J. Martin was planning a small subdivision of seven homes, each powered with photovoltaic solar cells and large Tesla Powerwall batteries, there was one idea that was quickly dimissed: the notion of linking the homes together with a small power grid that would let the homeowners share surplus power with one another.

It was a good idea, says Martin, who is developing the Green Homes Hanalei Street project with engineering assistance from the Honolulu solar company Revolusun. Continue reading “Civil Beat: “Why Hawaii Residents Can’t Build Their Own Private Power Grids””