I'd argue that one implication of a smarter grid would be that there'd have to batteries all over the place, exactly because batteries can adapt quickly and 'smartly' (with a .05$ microchip) to energy supply and demand.

Whereas there is a limit to the maximum intelligence of refrigerators, airconditioning devices, heat pumps, and washing machines.

Unfortunately the utilities' profit model is completely at odds with distributed generation, so they will fight it tooth and nail.

Other countries might manage smarter grids but it's not (yet) politically feasible in the US.