Improved Energy Harvesting

About

DESCRIPTION: There are an estimated 130 million wooden poles that support overhead power lines in the US.  Extreme weather, aging, storms, or sabotage can all lead to potential damage of these poles and power lines, which can leave large areas without necessities. Due to this risk, it’s anticipated that power utility companies will deploy sensors and corresponding energy harvesters to better respond to potential damage of this critical electricity grid infrastructure. To address this anticipated mass deployment of sensors and harvesters, researchers at UC Berkeley have developed technology improvements to harvesting of electrical energy from energized conductors carrying alternating currents, such as those on overhead and underground power lines (as well as power-supplying conductors in offices and dwellings).  These enhanced harvesters would improve the economics of deploying sensors across a national power grid.  The Berkeley harvesters can readily provide enough power to supply wireless communication devices, energy storage batteries and capacitors, as well as sensors such as accelerometers, particulate matter measuring devices, and atmospheric sensors. ADVANTAGES: Low cost to manufacture Compact and easy to install Capable of functioning unattended for 5-10 years