Thermoelectric energy conversion in buildings

Buildings consume almost one-third of the total global energy and emit nearly 15% of the direct CO2 generated on the planet. However, intelligent buildings taking advantage of modern energy efficient technologies have attracted large interest in recent years. In this regard, the application of various energy harvesters to convert different forms of energy present inside and around buildings into electrical energy has been widely investigated. These include photovoltaic, piezoelectric, pyroelectric, electromagnetic, and thermoelectric devices. Among them, thermoelectric generators (TEGs), capable of producing electricity directly from a temperature gradient, have demonstrated great potential. This review paper categorizes and explains plausible applications of thermoelectric materials and devices in buildings. In particular, state-of-the-art cement- and concrete-based thermoelectric composites and the potential applications of TEGs in windows, walls, pipes, and chimneys are discussed. Moreover, current challenges that face thermoelectric energy harvesters in buildings and practical approaches to tackle them are examined.