Batteries are not optional: Zahra Hargens Iliff of Vessyll on building the energy future
In this episode of The Turning Point, we speak with Zahra Hargens-Iliff, founder and CEO of Vessyll, a company designing battery storage and energy management systems for commercial and industrial use. Zahra brings a practical, systems-oriented perspective to the clean energy transition, grounded not in engineering but in hands-on experience as a builder.
We explore why battery storage is essential for grid stability, particularly as energy demand increases due to electrification and the rise of data centers. Zahra discusses the technical and logistical challenges of deploying batteries at scale, the benefits for businesses facing high energy costs, and the importance of distributed, localized power systems for a secure energy future.
The conversation also dives into the barriers slowing adoption — from outdated grid infrastructure to lack of cross-sector collaboration and punitive tariffs on imported battery components. Zahra offers candid insight into what’s working, what’s not, and why we don’t need to wait for perfect technology to start improving our local and regional power systems.
This is a grounded, accessible look at the complexities of energy infrastructure, the role of storage in decarbonization, and the mindset required to navigate an industry in flux — all from someone building solutions one project at a time.
Key Takeaways
Battery Storage Is Critical Infrastructure
Battery storage isn’t a side feature — it’s essential to enabling a stable, renewable-powered grid, especially as electricity demand grows with data centers, electrification, and AI technologies.The Transition Will Be Incremental — But It’s Already Underway
The clean energy shift doesn’t require perfection from day one. Businesses and policymakers must embrace phased implementation rather than waiting for ideal conditions.On-Site Energy Systems Drive Major Cost Savings
Commercial and industrial buildings can cut electricity costs significantly through solar-plus-storage systems — particularly by avoiding peak demand charges.Distributed Energy = Resilience and Independence
Localized power systems (like rooftop solar + batteries) reduce reliance on distant power plants, increase reliability, and lower stress on aging grid infrastructure.Utilities and Innovators Need to Collaborate, Not Compete
Progress hinges on better cooperation between utility providers and private clean energy companies. Engineers need shared rooms, not siloed agendas.Tariffs on Imports Are Slowing the Transition
With most battery components still made in China, high tariffs are crippling deployment, stalling projects, and threatening climate tech ventures and businesses.We Don’t Need to Wait for Better Technology
Proven battery technologies (like lithium iron phosphate) have been deployed successfully abroad for years. What’s missing is scaled implementation in the U.S.Public Awareness Drives Policy and Adoption
Business leaders and climate advocates can amplify impact by simply starting more conversations — in boardrooms, school boards, and social settings.
Chapter Markers
01:29 – What battery storage actually does
04:01 – Energy demand, data centers & diesel backup
06:38 – The myth of all-or-nothing energy transitions
08:47 – Utilities, grid infrastructure & collaboration gaps
11:00 – How battery systems reduce demand charges
14:30 – Use cases: medical clinics, data centers, commercial buildings
17:12 – The promise of distributed energy systems
19:30 – Why the U.S. is behind: a global comparison
22:00 – Zahra’s journey from homebuilding to battery tech
24:13 – What drives the work: curiosity and persistence
27:46 – Barriers to adoption: education, affordability, and incentives
33:02 – How federal tariffs are disrupting progress
38:47 – What collaboration could make possible
42:10 – What Zahra wants listeners to know and do