Toyoda Gosei invests in thermoelectric power generation startup

Kiyosu, Japan – Toyoda Gosei has invested in a Japanese startup which has developed a technology to convert heat to electricity in order to power 'internet of things sensors' in batteries.

Based in Kyoto, E-ThermoGentek has designed a flexible thermoelectric module, called ‘Frequina’, which it says can sustainably and wirelessly power sensors, cutting the costs and complexity of laying power wiring.

The module, according to E-ThermoGentek, can be mounted on heat sources, such as exhaust pipes or waste heat pipes of plants and infrastructure to provide ‘self-sustaining’ power supply for electric sensors.

In a 22 Sept statement, Toyoda Gosei said the investment in the startup was in line with its 2050 carbon neutrality commitment and efforts to switch to ‘energy-saving equipment and machinery’.

Toyoda Gosei said it expected the investment, the amount of which was not disclosed, to help it effectively use the thermal energy emitted during the moulding and processing of its rubber- and plastics-based products.