Sustainable water extraction using Peltier-assisted atmospheric water recovery system

Water scarcity remains one of the most critical global challenges, particularly in rural, remote, and warm–humid regions lacking centralized water infrastructure. Atmospheric Water Generation (AWG) offers a sustainable alternative by extracting moisture directly from humid air, yet most systems suffer from high energy consumption and low condensation efficiency. This study addresses these gaps through the design and experimental testing of a solar-powered Peltier-assisted AWG system employing TEC1-12706 thermoelectric modules and an optimized heat sink-fan assembly. The prototype, powered entirely by renewable energy, achieved a maximum yield of 24 mL/hr at 30 °C and 80% relative humidity, demonstrating a clear dependence of performance on climatic conditions. Results confirmed that higher temperature and humidity significantly improve condensation efficiency, with solar integration ensuring complete off-grid operation. While the system demonstrates feasibility under high-humidity conditions, its water productivity remains lower than advanced sorption-based and vapor-compression AWGs reported in recent literature, and it is therefore best suited for small-scale, decentralized applications rather than bulk water production, contributing directly toward UN SDG-6: Clean Water and Sanitation.