Assessment of solid-state power generators for low enthalpy geothermal resources

Abstract

Before producing electricity, most modern thermal power generation devices must convert thermal energy to mechanical work. Thermoelectric generation technology is a solid-state energy conversion process that uses thermoelectric transformation materials to convert thermal energy into electricity. This study discusses an innovative method to utilize thermoelectric technology in renewable energy. Heat may be converted directly to electricity using thermoelectric technology which is quiet, compact and environmentally friendly. In recent years, new and intriguing materials that have the potential to improve the efficiency of this technology have been found. This research focuses on generating power using solid-state generators such as thermoelectric generators (TEG) modules made from Bismuth telluride material composition. The output power was measured in an experimental research under various situations, including varied input temperatures and temperature differential between the hot and cold sides. It has been determined that by combining several TEG modules, we can generate up to 500-W of electrical power from low enthalpy geothermal resources.