Researchers at the University of Rochester have created a solar thermoelectric generator that works 15 times better than earlier designs. Normal STEGs make less than 1 percent electricity from sunlight, while solar panels make about 20 percent. The team improved the device by focusing on how it takes in and gives off heat, not by changing the materials inside. On the hot side, they applied black metal technology to enhance solar absorption and reduce unwanted heat loss. A plastic cover acted as a mini greenhouse to trap heat and raise temperature. On the cold side, laser-etched aluminum heat sinks doubled cooling performance through improved radiation and convection. The study demonstrated the generator powering LEDs and suggested potential applications in wireless sensors, wearable electronics, and off-grid energy systems.