Efficient pedestrian-level wind energy harvesting by a hybridized technology
Abstract
Pedestrian-level wind (PLW, 0-2m above ground level) as an affordable and clean energy, is characterized by high transience, low-Reynolds-number airflow and turbulence. PLW energy capture is severely limited in conventional systems (e.g., electromagnetic generators) due to their mechanical inertia and electromagnetic resistance-induced inefficiencies at ultralow speeds (<2 m/s). Here, we introduce a pedestrian-level wind energy hybrid harvester (PLW-HH) synergistically coupling triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) and electromagnetic generator (EMG), which leverages the complementary advantages of both technologies. At 1 m/s wind speed-a common condition in built environments the integrated system achieves a wind energy capture efficiency of 12%, with the TENG component contributing 86.7% of the total power output. This dominance of TENG at ultralow speeds arises from its unique sensitivity to minute mechanical vibrations and ultralow activation thresholds, surpassing EMG by over 650% in power under identical experimental conditions. By leveraging ubiquitous PLW from urban buildings, tunnels, and areas near low obstacles, our approach demonstrates a scalable pathway to power sensors, IoT devices, and low-energy systems without grid dependency. This work bridges the gap between underutilized micro-scale wind resources and growing in-situ self-sustaining energy demands, focusing on the feasibilities for ensuring universal access to modern, sustainable, and affordable energy for all.