START Tools

This section provides access to tools and resources developed within the START Technology Marketplace, supporting the transition from innovation to market uptake.

Building on the outputs of the START project, these tools help stakeholders assess technical, economic, and sustainability aspects of thermoelectric technologies and applications.

They include:

  • Economic modelling and benchmarking tools
  • Sustainability assessment methods (LCA, LCC)
  • Evaluation methodologies for raw materials and value chains
  • Supporting resources for research, development, and commercialization

Based on case studies and close-to-market applications, dedicated tools have been developed to support cost estimation, investment analysis, and business planning. These include CAPEX and OPEX models that enable stakeholders to evaluate the economic viability of thermoelectric solutions and support decision-making towards commercialization.

These tools form part of a growing portfolio that will continue to expand, contributing to the development of a sustainable thermoelectric ecosystem in Europe.

START CAPEX Modelling Tool

This tool supports the estimation of capital expenditure (CAPEX) for thermoelectric generator (TEG)-based systems, helping stakeholders understand the investment requirements of different applications.

It provides a structured breakdown of costs across the value chain—from raw material processing to system integration—making complex production processes easier to analyse and compare.

Designed as a flexible and modular model, the tool allows users to adapt inputs to specific use cases (e.g. biomass systems, solar applications), including parameters such as system size, number of modules, and material costs.

Key outputs include indicators such as cost per watt and payback period, supporting decision-making for technology development, scaling, and commercialization.

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START Benchmarking and Competition Assessment tool

This tool supports the evaluation of technical and economic performance of thermoelectric (TEG)-based systems by comparing them with conventional solutions and competing technologies.

It is built around a structured comparison framework that enables users to assess different applications based on key parameters such as costs, performance, and practical applicability.

Users can analyse metrics including CAPEX, OPEX, total cost of ownership (TCO), return on investment (ROI), and payback period, providing a clear view of the economic viability of thermoelectric solutions.

By enabling side-by-side comparisons, the tool helps identify competitive advantages, market opportunities, and optimization pathways, supporting informed decision-making for development and commercialization.

Sustainability Assessment (LCA & LCC)

Evaluates environmental and economic impacts through Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and Life Cycle Costing (LCC) tailored to thermoelectric technologies.