Can the U.S. Achieve 100% Renewable Energy in 10 Years?

A Personal Take on Joe Rogan, Ray Kurzweil, and the Role of AI in Our Energy Future

When Joe Rogan and Ray Kurzweil get together to talk about the potential for the United States to transition to 100% renewable energy within the next decade, you know it's going to be a thought-provoking conversation. Kurzweil, with his signature optimism about technology, suggests that advancements in solar energy, battery storage, and grid infrastructure could make this bold vision a reality. While the YouTube clip captures just a slice of their dialogue, it’s enough to spark deeper thoughts—especially when we consider how artificial intelligence (AI) is changing the game in ways that both excite and concern me as someone deeply embedded in the world of renewable energy.

You can catch that specific part of their conversation here: Can The USA Be 100% On Renewable Energy In 10 Years? | Joe Rogan & Ray Kurzweil. For the full discussion, head over to Spotify here.

The Exponential Growth of Renewable Energy: A Game-Changer?

Kurzweil’s insights into the exponential growth of solar energy are spot on. We’ve seen solar technology evolve at a pace that, honestly, even I couldn’t have predicted when I first started in this industry over eight years ago. The energy we’re pulling from the sun today compared to 20 years ago is staggering—solar panels are now more efficient, more affordable, and more accessible than ever before. If we keep pushing at this rate, I can see how we might just hit that 100% renewable energy target within the next decade.

But, let's not get too ahead of ourselves. Kurzweil also acknowledges the hurdles—energy storage and grid infrastructure. These are the big players in the room that we need to address if we’re serious about a clean energy future. And this is where my work, and the work of so many others in this field, really comes into play. We need to think beyond just deploying more solar panels; we need to ensure the energy they generate can be stored efficiently and distributed reliably. It’s a tall order, but it’s one I’m optimistic we can meet with the right mix of innovation, investment, and—dare I say—sheer determination.

AI’s Energy Hunger: The Double-Edged Sword

Now, let’s talk AI. This is a topic that gets me both excited and a bit wary. AI has the potential to revolutionize how we manage energy systems, making them smarter and more efficient. Imagine AI predicting energy demand with pinpoint accuracy, optimizing when and where energy gets distributed, or even making real-time adjustments to keep everything running smoothly. That’s the dream, right?

But here’s the flip side: AI is a power-hungry beast. Training large AI models requires a massive amount of energy—energy that, if not managed properly, could offset the very gains we’re making in renewable energy. It’s a bit like playing a game of chess with the future—every move has consequences, and we need to think several steps ahead. If we’re going to lean into AI, we need to make sure we’re doing it in a way that’s sustainable. That means powering AI with renewable energy and continuing to innovate in both fields so they complement rather than compete with each other. 

Renewable Energy: Beyond Climate Change, It's About Possibilities

I’ve had countless conversations with people who are skeptical about climate change, and while we may not always agree, there’s one thing we do see eye-to-eye on: the undeniable benefits of renewable energy. Whether it’s about gaining energy independence, cutting down on utility bills, or simply upgrading our outdated grid, renewable energy offers solutions that appeal across the board.

Renewable energy isn’t just a “nice to have” anymore—it’s a must. The aging energy grid many of us still depend on is crying out for innovation, and renewables are a big part of the answer. They provide resilience, they’re cost-effective in the long run, and they align with where the world is heading, whether you’re driven by environmental concerns or not. For me, this is about more than just climate—it’s about creating a future that’s sustainable, equitable, and ready for whatever comes next.

A Future Powered by Renewables and AI: My Vision

So, where do I see all this heading? If you ask me, the future is going to be a beautiful blend of renewable energy and AI, working together to create a world that’s smarter, cleaner, and more resilient. But getting there is going to take all of us—whether you’re an industry expert, a policymaker, or just someone who cares about where your energy comes from.

Kurzweil’s vision of a 100% renewable energy future is inspiring, but it’s not going to happen without addressing the challenges we’ve talked about—storage, grid modernization, and yes, the energy demands of AI. But I’m confident that with the right approach, we can make it work.

For me, this journey isn’t just professional—it’s personal. I believe in the power of renewable energy to change lives, to create opportunities, and to safeguard our planet for future generations. And I’m committed to being a part of that change, one solar panel, one conversation, and one innovative idea at a time.

About the Author

Dave Brown is the founder of Dave's Energy Solutions, an independent solar energy broker with over 8 years of experience in the renewable energy sector. Specializing in solar energy solutions and committed to sustainability, Dave focuses on educating and guiding individuals and businesses in adopting solar energy and renewable technologies. With a passion for the intersection of technology and sustainability, Dave is deeply involved in exploring how AI and renewable energy can work together to power the future. Through his work and his voice, Dave is dedicated to making renewable energy accessible, practical, and transformative for all.