- Is it possible for the US to not only be completely energy independent but also meet its full energy demand with renewable sources? In this talk, we will first investigate past energy transitions from wood to coal to oil and natural gas. Historically, we have moved toward a higher energy density fuel source with time, but these sources are finite. So let's play a game - if we scale up known, proven renewable sources of energy, can the US power itself sustainably? There are some surprising answers!

Eric Snodgrass is the Director of Undergraduate Studies for the Department of Atmospheric Sciences at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. He advises all undergraduate majors and minors in atmospheric science and supervises graduate teaching assistants and master’s students. He serves on numerous committees and boards on campus. Snodgrass’ research initiatives focus on K-12 science education as well as weather forecasting applications in financial markets. He is the co-founder of Global Weather and Climate Logistics, LLC. Recently, his company has merged with Agrible Inc. He has recently been awarded the LAS Teaching Excellence award and the Campus Teaching Excellence Award. Also, his online version of ATMS 120 was awarded the 2012 "Best Online Course" from the University Professional Continuing Education Association (a national organization).

This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at http://ted.com/tedx