Smart grid is just a tool to monitor your use of electricity. The limit switch has been in use for the past 10 to 15 years. The electric companies use it to reduce their Peak load purchase costs. It just reduces the load by accepting a Digital signal to cut off you hot water heater, A/C, Heater, on cue. Then by rotating the on's and offs no one gets left out and they don't peak as bad.
If you leave the grid completely you are setting yourself up for being declared a RESOURCE in case of major outage. They CAN under the EMERGENCY POWERS laws of most states come pull your power for emergency use. (How about a police dispatcher in your living room while you and your family move to a FEMA shelter?).
Though I have been accused of having an Aluminum helmet in my closet. I believe that installing low level Solar and wind for specific uses is a better way than opting off the grid and becoming a targeted source.
If you select specific items in your home to become Solar powered you are better off. Like a fridge in the garage and your Deep Freezer. How about one or two rooms where their is Solar backup outlets that can power radios and some lights that won't be seen outside. With some of the emerging heaters like the EMTEMP pull less than 4AMPS of power and can heat up to 500 SQ feet. Then one line in the kitchen to run a Microwave built into the cabinets with a switch to change the power to the Solar. Then the addition of a water from air device is always needed.
It s your choice,but this morning the wires are again warning about a CYBER ATTACK. If that s the next Red Flag life will become very hard indeed.