We have our microwave in the island. We considered a drawer microwave but they were very new when we did the remodel 6 years ago - the 24" model was just becoming available. Also, I have short arms and was concerned about the cleaning issue. I didn't like the trim on the ones available at the time. Instead we went with a KitchenAid with a drop down door. I've put the link to the current similar model below. It has the controls on top and a knob which makes it simpler to use from above than side controls and a keypad. Of course one still has to stoop to put something in and take it out, but I don't find that any worse than using my bottom oven. If we were making the decision today, we might choose a drawer microwave now that they have been around for longer because of being slightly more convenient to load and stir even if it would be hard for me to clean. But we are happy with what we have. The performance of the KitchenAid in evenness of heating and such is great. I like the meal reheat button which does fine job on reheating leftovers. Here is a link that might be useful: KitchenAid with drop down door.

We redid our kitchen last year and I sprung for the microwave drawer in my island. I use it numerous times a day, had back issues all last year and this is great. It doesn't take up any counter space and there is no bending required, just tilt out the controls and press the buttons, it slides in and out of the cabinet and you place food into it from the top. Easy to use for the kids as well and now that they are older I don't worry about them playing with it. I read that the drawers had a tendency to break so I bought the 5 year extended warranty and so far have not had any problems. This is the Sharp one we have. https://www.bestbuy.com/site/sharp-24-1-2-cu-ft-built-in-microwave-drawer-stainless-steel/4259700.p?skuId=4259700

What about adding a new dedicated circuit? Did they explain how it could be done and the price, so that you could make that choice, and not have someone else dictate what is going in YOUR kitchen. I needed 2 new dedicated circuits when I remodeled. It involved pulling a new line, going up/over garage, then down into crawlspace, then all the way across the house. It took 3 guys two full days to get it all done. The cost isn't insignificant, but it also isn't extreme when compared to the whole renovation cost and getting the kitchen layout that works best for you.

Really having a tough time with this haha. I’d rather not put a over the range microwave in. Would like to have a fold down door or something more “built in”. But cannot find any that will work with the 16.5 height