I don't understand why the utility companies can't convert some of their regional substations to local grid level storage locations, to counter this trend. They have the scale to utilize larger scale banks of batteries, hire people to manage them, and even exploit more dangerous technologies (like the emerging molten salt batteries).
Of course, that leaves them ripe for disruption, but the nature of local monopolies makes that somewhat less likely.
The cost of battery maintenance might benefit from some economies of scale, but even if it did, they'd still pass those costs on to the consumers.
What's frustrating is that many utilities are actively trying to preserve the status quo through legislative maneuvers.
On the other hand, I think some utility providers are investigating alternative battery tech. Look into Vanadium flow batteries as one option.
The problems with lead acid and Lithium are better handled by Liquid electrolyte batteries, which can scale better and seem to be much more stable in storage scenarios. The downside is that they can be huge, so they'll never be any good in cars, but might be great in warehouses.