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A TECTEM is a thermionic energy module. It will ultimately replace the central heating facilities annex domestic hot water systems in homes. It's merit stems from the fact that in conventional central heating facilities, high temperature heat is being used for low temperature purposes, In a TECTEM, some of this heat is used to generate electricity. The waste heat of the Thermionic Energy Converter (TEC) can still be used for producing domestic hot water and for heating a house. Because of this the marginal efficiency, with which electricity can be generated, can be as high as 80%. The specific electricity costs are rather low. Since the TECTEM saves energy as compared to electricity production by central station power plants, it also reduces CO2 emission. A brief overview is given of the design criteria leading to the design of the first TECTEM. The design of this prototype incorporating six TEC's is explained.