SOLAR-TEG: Enhancing Solar Interfacial Solar- Driven Evaporation with Thermoelectric

Generators
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A Research Proposal
Presented to
The Faculty of ABM/STEM Group
Aurora Senior High School
Ballesteros, Aurora, Isabela
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In partial fulfillment of the requirements for the subject

Inquiries, Investigation and Immersion
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De Guzman, Julian Jay, M., Jr.
Ramos, Rolfe Jan V.
Queja, Jhon Marc P.
Yanuaria, Clark Kent M.
Asuncion, Airah Clarize
Bedaña, Gilliana P.
Belangoy, Azinaira A.
Javier, Shakira Dimple S.
Solita, Shezel M.
Romin, Ryza S.
Researchers

STEM 12 Celsius

JUNEL M. MADARANG, EdD

Research Adviser

February 2024
 CHAPTER I
The Problem and Its Background

Introduction
Electricity has become an indispensable part of our daily lives, powering everything from
lighting our homes to running various appliances. However, the excessive usage of electricity
can have detrimental effects on the environment, leading to increased carbon emissions, air
pollution, and depletion of natural resources. These pollutants, byproducts of electricity
production, contribute to global warming and pose health-related problems.
The impacts of overusing electricity on both human health and the environment have been
extensively documented in global and local studies. According to “Environmental Impact of
Energy” (2004), energy and environmental problems are closely related, as it is nearly
impossible to produce, transport, or consume energy without significant environmental impact.
Environmental problems directly related to energy production and consumption include air
pollution, climate change, water pollution, thermal pollution, and solid waste disposal. The
emission of air pollutants from fossil fuel combustion is the major cause of urban air pollution.
Another study by Olusegun (2020), the impacts of environmental change have become a
significant reality of the 21 st century, affecting nations worldwide. Among the results of negative
fossil energy effects are the greenhouse effect, global warming, and climate forcing. Burning
fossil fuels to generate electricity and heat contributes significantly to global emissions, with
coal, oil, and gas still being the primary sources. These sources release carbon dioxide and
nitrous oxide, potent greenhouse gases that trap heat and exacerbate climate change.
Locally, the Philippines faces heightened vulnerability to the repercussions of climate change,
with rising sea levels, increased occurrences of extreme weather events, and shifts in temperature
and rainfall patterns. The nation’s susceptibility stems from its exposure to natural hazards,
dependence on climate-sensitive resources, and extensive coastlines where major urban centers
and populations reside.

In an era marked by many advancement and a growing concern for sustainable living, the need
for sustainable power generation in our daily live has never been more critical. To meet this
challenge, our study, titled “SOLAR-TEG: Enhancing Interfacial Solar-Driven Evaporation with
Thermoelectric Generators,” presents an innovative solution. By integrating sustainable
electricity generation with a water purification system utilizing thermoelectric generators, our
research endeavors to offer a cost-effective and eco-friendly solution to mitigate greenhouse gas
emissions as alternative for electricity consumption.
Drawing from existing research, such as “Experimental Investigations on a Portable Fresh Water
Generator Using a Thermoelectric Cooler” by Joshi et al. (2017), which demonstrated a notable
increase in water generation with the use of an internal heat sink, our study aims to build upon
these findings. We seek to advance the integration of thermoelectric generators into water
purification systems, ensuring that renewable energy sources play a pivotal role in sustainable
electricity generation. Our research objectives are centered on designing, building, and testing
the accuracy and efficacy of the ‘SOLAR-TEG’ system. Through the fusion of thermoelectric
generator technology and Interfacial Solar-Driven Evaporation for water purification, we strive
to develop a solution that not only addresses water scarcity but also contributes to the reduction
of greenhouse gas emissions, thereby combating global warming.

Statement of the Problem

Significance of the Study

Scope and Delimitation