Wind and photovoltaics just skip the heat part in the cycle. Electricity is generated without converting heat to kinetic energy.

This is also the case of helion energy fusion solution. Aneutronic fusion with direct energy conversion. No heat in the cycle.

The issue with these thermal power solutions is the waste heat. It means you need water nearby to cool down your reactor. Side effect: thermal pollution, raising the temp of rivers and/or coastals water is detrimental to ecosystems. Plus: how do you deal with droughts?