<p>There is a growing interest in multipurpose materials that can produce their own energy. The trend is driven by fluctuating energy demands and the need for sustainable infrastructure solutions. The study focuses on energy harvesting concrete composites under three categories of conversion processes: piezoelectric, thermoelectric, and photovoltaic processes. The main principles, material advancements, and performance characteristics of all energy harvesting technologies are reviewed, along with their integration into cementitious additions. The review critically examined the efficiency of mechanical and electrical coupling, resistance to repetitive loads, and sustainability under adverse environmental conditions of smart constructing materials. The parameters of the energy conversion process, density of power, fatigue resistance, affability of self-powered infrastructural applications, and cost effectiveness are reviewed. Despite significant progress in the production of laboratory-scaled samples, there are still major challenges associated with scaling up production and the optimality of material costs. The energy harvesting concrete-based products frame an innovative concept of new smart infrastructure, which can support wired sensors, structural health monitoring devices, and information technology devices, and ultimately, offer sustainable urban development and reduced carbon footprint of civil developments., which is consistent with the sustainable development goals.</p> Graphical abstract <p></p>