The four components of the Lorenz energy cycle are analyzed by a superposed epoch method using as key dates the crossings by the earth of the solar sector boundaries in the interplanetary magnetic field. The eddy kinetic energy is expected to be related to the vorticity area index (VAI), which apparently exhibits a significant dependence on solar activity. Thus, the Lorenz energy cycle provides us with a means of attempting to establish a broader, physical picture of the atmospheric processes involved in solar modulation of the VAI. Seemingly significant results (>95%) are obtained during the winter months; in particular, the eddy kinetic energy displays a response (~97% at 500 mb) which is similar in nature to but of lesser amplitude and statistical significance than the VAI response. However, a ''control experiment'' utilizing random key dates suggests that the statistical significance of these results is actually much less. It is, therefore, concluded that no compelling evidence for a solar modulation of tropospheric energetics is found.