National security, economic vitality and growth depend upon adequate future energy supplies. As global reserves of non-renewable, conventional energy resources become available at continuously rising prices, concern at all government levels is increasing daily. In the national interest, it is essential that university initiatives in technology and research join with industry and national and research laboratories to focus on the sustainability of energy supply and related areas.

In 2004, IIT took a leadership role in establishing the Wanger Institute for Sustainable Energy Research. Wanger faculty members represent substantial expertise and specialists with accomplishments in this area, including: clean energy sources and conversion, energy conservation and efficiency, renewable energy, hybrid systems, hydrogen economy, power, and tire recycling.