Prospects of Power Generation from Geothermal Energy Using Thermoelectric Modules

Abstract

This paper presents the prospects of power generation from geothermal energy using thermoelectric modules. A heat exchanger thermosiphon with a number of thermoelectric generators is proposed for this research. Thermosiphon heat exchanger is a passive device that can transfer heat from a hot reservoir to a cold reservoir. The heat from the geothermal source is transferred to the liquid in the thermosiphon. The liquid absorbs the heat and changes to vapour phase. The vapour then travels to the heat exchanger and transfers heat to the thermoelectric generators by condensation. Thermoelectric generators generate electricity when a temperature difference is created across these generators due to Seebeck effect. The hot and cold surface of these generators generates electrical potential and current flows when a load is applied. These thermoelectric generators are silent due to the absence of moving parts, scalable to meet any power demand and require no maintenance. The proposed system is able to generate electricity at an overall efficiency (thermal to electricity) of 8- 9%. The cost of power generation is in the range that can be competitive to other power generation plants. The proposed system can be used as an environmental friendly and sustainable alternative to other power generation systems.