Towards Self-Powered Systems: Using Nanostructures to Harvest Ambient Energy

In this chapter, we present the advantages of semiconducting nanostructures (nanowires) for energy harvesting applications. Three sources of energy are considered: mechanical inputs, light and thermal energy. Different simulation approaches are used to discuss the prospects of these energy transduction solutions at nanoscale. Some guidelines are brought out for the improvement of energy conversion efficiency by nanowires, when integrated into functional devices.