Sometimes it is said that “heat is developed” in a resistance when there is an electric current in it. Recall that heat is defined as the energy being transferred due to the temperature difference. Is the statement under quotes technically correct?
Yes, the statement is correct. The electric current flowing inside the resistor increases the potential energy of the resistor, which increases the temperature of the resistor to be greater than the surroundings. This temperature difference is the cause of the heat.