Looks like we are decades away from using external energy and propulsion sources. Looks like chemical propulsion is the way to go in the near future.

I don't think so. It seems like it was not because of lack of technology that failed a startup like escape dynamics but rather unwilling investors who were concerned about near term financial gains. Also, ground based for microwave driven IMHO is not the way to go if you are looking for reduced cost per kg per launch. No offense to the team, but they should be looking at orbital based techniques for similar power transfers - relyin on reduced atmospheric interference and much stronger power generation from direct sunlight.