What’s the deal with zero-point energy?

Q: I’ve been reading about some sort of infinite inexhaustible energy that might be out there called ”zero-point” energy. I also understand there is some scientific basis for this not being crazy. What’s the deal?
OS, Boston

A: Zero-point energy is a real, serious physics phenomenon, but it’s far from clear that you can get it to do anything useful, like run your car or make toast.