Low-Power Generation Cost Thermoelectric Generator

The increase in environmental concerns has aroused the need for clean methods of producing electricity. Thermoelectric generators are a suitable candidate as they can generate power wherever there exists a stable heat source, are noise and vibration free, and can operate reliably. However, their high-power generation cost, when compared to that of other technologies such as wind and solar power, has hindered their widespread application. This work proposes a low-power generation cost thermoelectric device that can produce up to twice the amount of power when compared to conventional devices owing to the larger temperature gradient across the device. Additionally, the proposed device consumes 60% less high-cost thermoelectric materials leading to a decreased manufacturing cost. Finally, owing to the increased power generation and reduced material consumption, the power generation cost of the proposed device is decreased by about 80% when compared to that of conventional devices. These results could realize the widespread commercialization of thermoelectric generators for clean power generation.