Saving the Planet - Can Peltier effect assemblies produce energy ?

[Technomaniac]

Many Peltier-effect car fridges are dumped. I wondered if the cells can be made to produce voltage when heated by sunlight.  One side would I assume have to be kept cool. I tried this out briefly with little encouraging result. Don't they use the thermocouple idea, or do I have my Seebeck effect mixed up with Peltier, are they similar or different effects?

[Turnip]

Hi Tech,

Interesting - understand thar Seebeck is dissimilar metals in contact as in thermocouples whereas Peltier is semiconductor based. Like you, have discovered piles of unfashionable mini fridges around and feel those peltier devices might be handy for something.

Would be interesting to hear of your progress, note that some car makers have used them to increase efficiency in electricity generation by a reasonable percentage.