Make money online: YES

Community microgrid development and energy independence planning can be a remote-friendly side hustle, allowing you to work from anywhere with an internet connection. However, some in-person meetings with clients or stakeholders may be necessary depending on the project. Online discussions on Reddit and other forums suggest that this opportunity generally lives up to its potential for those with the right expertise and connections. Success in this field may vary based on your location, access to clients, time zones for coordinating projects, and the equipment needed for planning and development. Potential red flags include the complexity of navigating regulations and the technical aspects of energy systems. Overall, with setup costs ranging from $500 to $5,000 and the potential to start seeing profits within 2 months, this side hustle offers a promising opportunity for those interested in sustainable energy solutions.