This interdisciplinary course explores why society relies on a fossil-fuel-based economy, the pros and cons of fossil fuels and renewable energy sources, and what it may take to transition to cleaner energy sources. These issues are explored using perspectives from chemistry and physics. The course discusses what energy is, why we need it, and the consequential impact of energy use, including the nexus of energy, air pollution, climate change, and social justice. Readings include newspaper articles, research reports, and secondary research articles. Assignments include responses to discussion questions, quantitative problems that explore energy-related issues, and a midterm. The course culminates in a research project that investigates an aspect of what it may take to realize a just transition to a decarbonized energy system for the US. This course is required for the Interdisciplinary Science major and minor, satisfies the Natural Sciences subject area for the Environmental Studies major and satisfies the "subject by subject" course requirement for the Journalism + Design major.