Abstract: A smart vent comprises a thermoelectric generator coupled to a power storage. The thermoelectric generator that generates voltage or electrical energy based on a temperature differential between a room temperature and a temperature in a duct where the smart vent is installed. The generator charges the storage using the generated voltage. A radio is coupled to the power storage and receives a wireless command from a device to open a vent so that air flows from the duct to the room. A processor, coupled to the storage and the radio, determines if there is sufficient charge in the power storage to open the vent apparatus; sends a command to a motor to open the vent if there is sufficient charge. A motor, coupled to the storage and processor, opens the vent upon receiving the command, thereby ceasing charging the power storage as the temperature differential decreases.