Why is thermoelectric power generation called direct energy conversion?

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thermoelectric power generator Components of a thermoelectric generator.

Thermoelectric power generation is classified as direct energy conversion because there is no intermediate energy conversion process involved in the transformation of heat into electricity.1

In a thermoelectric power generator, a temperature differential maintained across a converter—created by a heat source and a heat sink—directly produces direct current (DC). Unlike other systems that may require multiple stages or mechanical components to generate power, these solid-state devices rely on the thermoelectric effect to facilitate the immediate interaction between the flow of heat and electricity through solid bodies.1