A low-power thermoelectric generator for off-grid power in the aftermath of natural disasters

Abstract

This paper proposes a solution for small-scale off-grid power by exploiting the temperature gradient that exists in the natural surroundings. Thermoelectric Generators (TEG) are low-power and relatively inexpensive devices that have the ability to produce power based on a temperature differential between a hot side and a cold side. In this paper, solar power or simply the ambient temperature is used to collect the thermal energy needed to create the hot side of the TEG. On the other hand, to create the cold side of the TEG, the earth is used as a heat sink. The advantages of the proposed solution lie in the fact that it is self-contained, fully decentralized, and very easy to install. It does not need to be directly exposed to solar irradiance and can function equally well with ambient temperature (as opposed to similar solar powered modules), does not need a battery (therefore no need for maintenance), and does not need access to electric outlets. As a lightweight, portable, and inexpensive solution, the proposed TEG-based device is ideal for providing small amounts of off-grid power for people in a disaster-affected area who have been left without electricity. The paper presents details on the design of the TEG-based device, and experimental results based on various weather conditions and different design parameters. It is shown in the paper that the proposed device can function both in winter time as well as summer time.