Trina’s Vertex S+ vs REC’s Twinpeak 4 Â
Electrical Sensations’ first preference is to install REC’s Alpha Pure solar panels. The Alpha Pure is REC’s multi-award-winning, premium panel. In terms of efficiency, performance and longevity, the Alpha Pure is one of the industry’s best. However, they also come with a premium price tag that doesn’t fit everyone’s budget. That is why we also offer a more affordable option that will still perform well – introducing the REC TwinPeak 4 and Trina’s new Vertex S+! These are the two solar panels that we will be comparing in this blog.
Both the TwinPeak 4 and Vertex S+ are solar panels that we proudly install & have great confidence in. We are very picky when it comes to the quality and reliability of the products we install & these two have made the cut. That says something!
Both panels are around the same price mark, however, there are a few noteworthy differences in cell technology and performance. Read on for more information.
The Stats
​ | ​Trina Vertex S+ | ​REC TwinPeak 4 |
​WATTAGE (SIZE OPTIONS) | ​400 – 415 W | ​360 – 375 W |
​PRODUCT WARRANTY | ​25 years | ​25 years |
​PERFORMANCE WARRANTY | ​30 years | ​25 years |
CELLS | ​120 N-type | ​120 P-type |
​MAX EFFICIENCY | ​21.4% | ​20.5% |
​ANNUAL DEGRADATION | ​0.40% | ​0.50% |
​DIMENSIONS | ​1770 x 1096 x 30 mm | ​1755 x 1040 x 30 mm |
​WHERE THEY ARE MADE | ​China | ​Singapore |
​DATASHEET |
REC vs Trina
Trina | ​REC |
​Trina is a popular, well-known brand – in fact, they are one of the top five solar panel suppliers in the world! Over the years Trina has built a solid reputation and vast global distribution network across 30 countries. Founded in 1997, Trina focuses on performance and value for money. As a rule, Trina does not typically compete in the expensive, premium end of the market – with the exception of the new Vertex range. The Vertex S+ has N-type cells & close to 22% efficiency! These are a premium panel & the only Trina panels that we install. | REC was founded in Norway in 1996 with operational headquarters in Singapore. REC is a well-known and reliable brand in the global solar industry. REC’s combination of product quality, company reliability and commitment to sustainability makes REC solar panels amongst the top performers in the marketplace. With an impressive 25 years product warranty and an enviable low claim rate, REC panels set the industry benchmark for quality and longevity. There is no doubt REC will be a long–term player in the solar industry! |
Pros and cons
​ | ​​Trina Vertex S+ | ​​REC TwinPeak 4 |
PROS | ​N-Type Cells Higher efficiency Backed by a huge manufacturer Higher wattage = less roof space Slightly cheaper | ​Reliable company Outstanding Australian support team Support bars on backing = physically stronger Made in Singapore ‘Twin’ design to improve performance in partial shading |
CONS | ​Made in China by a Chinese company Lower temperature coefficient | ​Lower efficiency A little bit more expensive |
FAQs
What does the twin/half-cut design really mean?
The ‘Twin’ panel design is one of REC’s iconic design features. To keep it nice & simple, the panels are split into two, even sections. This reduces internal resistance which means:
Higher energy yields*
Continued energy production in shaded conditions*
Increased reliability*
Both the TwinPeak 4 and the Alpha Pure have this ‘twin’ design. * Compared to a standard solar panel, according to REC.
How long have REC and Trina been around?
Why choose a REC Solar Professional, like Electrical Sensations?
Is Trina a Chinese company?
Got any questions? We’re here to help! Call our friendly team on 4637 2744 or email us at admin@electricalsensations.com.au.
At Electrical Sensations, we are proud to have been servicing Toowoomba and the Darling Downs since 2004. We are 100% committed to designing energy-saving solutions and installing high-quality equipment that will best meet your needs, in a manner that we are proud to put our name to. No cutting corners or compromising on quality, reliability or safety.
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