Thermoelectric Modules: Applications and Opportunities in Building Environments for Sustainable Energy Generation from Biomass, Municipal Waste, and Other Sources

Abstract

In the constant search for alternative energy sources, thermoelectric modules have emerged as a crucial technology for power generation. This study provides a comprehensive review of their applications in the building environment, an area that has become increasingly important. Despite their lower efficiency, thermoelectric modules are very useful for capturing and converting waste heat from waste gas decomposition into valuable energy sources. The paper is structured into five categories: power generation, sustainable building practices, heating and cooling systems, software simulations, and hybrid systems. Ultimately, this research analyzes the opportunities and prospects for thermoelectric applications in buildings, offering valuable insights into the current energy recovery landscape, especially in the context of biomass and municipal solid waste decomposition.