We shall use centrifugal forces to provide an explanation of dark energy by demonstrating that every orbit for a body has a centrifugal term in the radial equation of motion that balances gravity. Using the Schwarzschild solution of Einstein’s field equations, we replace the cosmological constant in the Friedman equations for the expansion of the universe with a term related to the ratio of rotational energy density to the rest mass energy density. The new equations explain how a flat universe can be expanding with a positive acceleration by spending internal rotational energy. This paper compliments the findings of several that have demonstrated serious problems with the analysis of experimental data justifying “dark energy". Instead of postulating dark energy, perhaps we should be taking a more careful look at the validity of the standard cosmological assumption of a homogenous and isotropic universe.