Applications of Thermoelectricity in Buildings: From Energy Harvesting to Energy Management

Thermoelectric modules used as electricity generators or for producing heat or cooling are being increasingly deployed in applications referring to buildings. This paper recalls the basic principles of thermoelectricity and provides an overview of the solutions used in buildings for different purposes. The applications considered include heating and cooling internal spaces, energy harvesting for power supply to sensors used in energy management systems, as well as in thermoelectric refrigerators and solutions for personal thermal management to improve the thermal comfort of the individuals inside the buildings.