Title: Energy
Course: 2016FA-MCO-115-401 > Section: Module 2: Energy

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Energy

Energy is a broad term that describes the methods we use to do work. Merriam-Webster defines energy as, “a fundamental entity of nature that is transferred between parts of a system in the production of physical change within the system and usually regarded as the capacity to do work”, or as, “usable power” [1].

This usable power is most often times thought of in the United States in terms of electricity. Electricity is something that we often take for granted.

Why is Energy Critical Infrastructure?

The Department of Homeland Security declared energy as one of the critical infrastructure sectors because of the country’s critical dependence on energy. “…It provides an “enabling function” across all critical infrastructure sectors” [2]. The Sector Specific Agency (SSA) for the Energy Sector is the Department of Energy (DOE).

Energy disruptions which currently tend to have a domino effect on the current electric grid, can have negative implications on many of the comforts in an American’s everyday life. Disruptions also can result in life threatening situations. Winter loss of electricity can lead to loss of life from lack of heat. Our banking infrastructure relies heavily on electricity to power its security and Information Technology. Emergency services and call centers rely on energy. Transportation and even traffic lights depend on energy too.  Making our energy infrastructure more secure and reliable helps our nation to be more secure.