Harker School InvenTeam

Aquatic thermoelectric generator
Energy and Environment

The Harker School InvenTeam invented an aquatic thermoelectric generator device. As the device floats on water, reflector panels focus sunlight onto a black surface that converts the solar energy to heat. This heat is passed through thermoelectric panels and passively dissipated into the surrounding water. Harnessing the thermal gradient between the hot surface and the cold water, the thermoelectric panels generate electricity that can be used for commercial or residential purposes. This amount of power is enough to charge ten laptop batteries, power a 60 W bulb for 16.5 hr, or power a pool lighting system for two to three hours each night.