I’m honored to be named to the 2026 TIME100 Climate list.

But this recognition is about way more than me. It reflects the work of outgoing Ford Energy President Lisa Drake and talented team members across Ford Energy who are building a new business with a clear purpose: help meet America’s growing need for reliable, affordable power.

The challenges facing the U.S. power grid are real. Electricity demand is rising, and at the same time, the grid needs more capacity and more flexibility to incorporate a diverse mix of generation resources, including renewables.

For years, energy storage was a promising technology for the future. That future is here, and battery energy storage has an essential role to play.

Storage can help utilities and large energy users manage demand, support grid reliability, and make more effective use of energy generated from renewable sources. Customers need systems they can trust, manufacturers that can deliver with quality at scale, and a team that will be there to support the product throughout its lifecycle.

“This business is about more than batteries. It is about helping to strengthen the energy infrastructure America will rely on for decades.”

Dave Carroll, President, Ford Energy

That is the opportunity in front of Ford Energy.

Ford has spent more than a century delivering at industrial scale. We are applying that manufacturing experience, along with advanced battery technology, to create U.S.-assembled battery energy storage systems.

I joined Ford Energy in August because I see no bigger opportunity in this market than helping build a category-defining energy business for one of America’s most iconic and important companies.

We are moving quickly from launch to scale — securing customer commitments, preparing our Kentucky gigafactory, and building the team, capabilities, and supply chain needed to begin assembly of battery energy storage systems in late 2027.

Our focus is end to end: from battery cell and system assembly to commercial strategy, customer sales, and service. It is a substantial undertaking, but it is exactly what customers need in a market where quality and speed matter.

This business is about more than batteries. It is about helping to strengthen the energy infrastructure America will rely on for decades. I’m proud to be part of the team that’s working to make it a reality.

You can explore the full 2026 TIME100 Climate list and read my TIME100 Climate profile.

Dave Carroll is president, Ford Energy.

Image from TIME. © 2026 TIME USA LLC. Used under license.