This work demonstrates two high-voltage aqueous flow batteries, including one operating at a non-hybrid record 2.13 V cell potential. These batteries utilize a negative electrolyte comprised of chelated chromium ions and operate near neutral pH with high efficiency. The chelate acts as a solvent barrier or ''molecular SEI,'' inhibiting water splitting by the highly reducing Cr 2+ ion. The combination of earth abundant redox-active metals and mass-produced organic chelates represents a compelling direction for low-cost flow battery electrolyte chemistry.