Resilient power systems and the cost of solar energy

Sometimes advanced solar plus energy storage systems do not appear to be cost-efficient under traditional cost-benefit calculations. However, if costs incurred from future power outages are considered, this balance can change very quickly.  These costs could include the loss of essential services such as air conditioning and water pumps, medical equipment failure, liability incurred because of the lack of power or inability to keep critical businesses operating. Considering resilience in solar system design is particularly relevant in light of increasing frequency of extreme heat and high-wind events. For more details, see https://www.nrel.gov/docs/fy18osti/70679.pdf