A few weeks ago, I didn’t even know that thermoelectric lamps existed. Physics (followed by maths and chemistry) was my worst subject at school. I couldn’t get my head around how energy, mass and the like worked. To this day, I still can’t – which is why I’m absolutely amazed at how heat can get a light to work.

I think that, although all three below are thermoelectric lamps, they work in different ways. One uses candlelight – managing to amplify the flame from one tea light. The next has an integral battery that’s charged simply by placing it on top of a hot range or woodburning stove. and the battery can then run a bulb for almost a full day. Finally, the bottom lamp uses a naked flame and kerosene to power two bulbs. It’s science with a dusting of magic!

All three lamps are fairly pricey, but only one of them gets me excited. I love the fact that the heat from my almost primeval wood-fired stove can charge my 21^st century iPhone, laptop or tablet. You can even get an accessory for it that allows you to charge the lamp via solar power!

1. TLIGHT: ThermLight thermal power generated LED lamp: £79.00, Amazon
   

   • Multi directional LED light (bright white) powered by a small lit candle (tea light)
   • The heat generated by the tea light converted into electric energy supplying 18 LEDs
   • Eco friendly – no batteries or electric current required – 2 Peltier modules
   • Compact and stylish design for indoor and outdoor use (rust resistant)
   • Includes 9 light tea lights – 4 hours per candle

2. TEGpro Stove Lite Pro: £200.00
   

   Place it on your hot stove top, and within a minute or two it starts to emit light. The Stove Lite Pro includes a built-in rechargeable battery, mode select button and USB phone/tablet charging port. Once the Stove Lite’s internal battery is charged it may be used off-stove as a light for up to 20 hours or used to recharge your phone or tablet.
   The Stove Lite Pro uses a Thermoelectric Generator (TEG) that leverages the difference in temperature to create electricity. In addition to heat for warmth, now your wood stove can also be used to run and charge a mobile light source, the Stove Lite Pro.

3. Functional steampunk thermoelectric kerosene desk lamp: £9,203.87, Etsy
   

   Powered by the primordial flame located in the heart of the machine…
   …working on kerosene, no power cords or batteries.

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