A Review on Energy Harvesting Transparent Windows using Thermoelectric Generators

The increasing demand for electrical energy and the need for sustainable building technologies have encouraged research into transparent energy-harvesting windows. Conventional solar photovoltaic panels generally require separate installation areas and may not be suitable for applications where natural daylight and visibility are important. This review examines energy-harvesting transparent windows with particular emphasis on solar-thermal energy conversion using thermoelectric generators. It discusses the operating principle of thermoelectric generators based on the Seebeck effect, solar heat collection, copper heat-transfer components, and heat-dissipation arrangements. Alternative technologies, including transparent photovoltaic systems, luminescent solar concentrators, and thermocell-based windows, are also considered for comparison. A proposed LUMINA GLA SS concept is discussed, in which a transparent glass panel is integrated with copper heat-transfer pipes and thermoelectric modules positioned near the window edges to reduce obstruction of the viewing area. A microcontroller-based monitoring arrangement using voltage, current, and temperature sensors is proposed for observing the electrical and thermal parameters. The major challenges include maintaining a sufficient temperature difference, minimizing thermal losses, preserving transparency, and obtaining useful electrical output. This review identifies the potential and limitations of integrating energy-harvesting technologies into transparent building components and outlines possible directions for further development.