Systems and methods for reducing current and increasing voltage in thermoelectric systems

A thermoelectric assembly configured to be in thermal communication with a generally tubular first fluid conduit configured to allow a first fluid to flow through the first fluid conduit along a first direction, the thermoelectric assembly extending at least partially around a perimeter of the first fluid conduit, the thermoelectric assembly comprising:

• a plurality of thermoelectric elements;
• at least one shunt comprising a first portion and a second portion, the first portion in thermal communication with and mechanically coupled to the plurality of thermoelectric elements, the second portion in thermal communication with and mechanically coupled to the first portion and having a curved surface configured to be in thermal communication with the first fluid conduit;
• at least one electrically insulating element configured to electrically isolate the plurality of thermoelectric elements from the at least one shunt;
• at least one hole or recess in the first portion of the at least one shunt;
• and
• at least one insert at least partially within the at least one hole or recess and in thermal communication and in electrical communication with the plurality of thermoelectric elements,
• wherein the at least one electrically insulating element comprises at least one electrically insulating layer between the at least one insert and the first portion of the at least one shunt.