REC is known for producing high-quality solar panels, but which one is best for you?
The REC Alpha Pure and TwinPeak 4 are both good quality solar panels. We proudly recommend both to our customers, and in fact, have been installing REC panels for more than 5 years.
How are they similar? Both panels feature a half-cut design, have an impressive 25 year (20+5) product warranty, and are backed by a large company with a well-staffed and competent team in their Australian office.
What are the main points of difference? Price, efficiency, appearance and the type of cells. Read on for more information.
Table of contents:
REC Alpha Pure
132 cell half-cut solar panel
THE STATS
WATTAGE (SIZE OPTIONS)
385kW, 390kW, 395kW, 400kW, 405kW, 410kW
PRODUCT WARRANTY
25 years*
PERFORMANCE WARRANTY
25 years
92% at year 25
TYPE OF CELLS
MAX EFFICIENCY
20.8% – 22.2%
ANNUAL DEGRADATION
0.25%
DIMENSIONS
1821 x 1016 x 30 mm
WHERE THEY ARE MADE
Singapore
*When installed by an REC Certified
Solar Professional such as Electrical Sensations
REC TwinPeak 4
120 cell half-cut solar panel
THE STATS
WATTAGE (SIZE OPTIONS)
360kW, 365kW, 370kW, 375kW
PRODUCT WARRANTY
25 years*
PERFORMANCE WARRANTY
25 years
86% at year 25
TYPE OF CELLS
MAX EFFICIENCY
19.7% – 20.5%
ANNUAL DEGRADATION
0.50%
DIMENSIONS
1755 x 1040 x 30 mm
WHERE THEY ARE MADE
Singapore
*When installed by an REC Certified
Solar Professional such as Electrical Sensations
Key Differences
Efficiency
The Alpha Pure (max 22.2%) is more efficient compared to the TwinPeak 4 (max 20.5%). A higher efficiency = the more solar power it will produce per square metre. While the Alpha Pure has slightly higher efficiency, the TwinPeak 4 are still a highly efficient panel compared to others on the market. The Alpha Pure (0.25%) also have lower annual degradation compared to the TwinPeak 4 (0.50%) so the Alpha Pure panels will perform better year on year.
Cost
The TwinPeak 4 panels are more affordable, yet still high performing. They are an excellent value-for-money product. The Alpha Pure is a premium, top-of-the-range panel and their price tag reflects this. The REC Alpha Pure panels work out to be around $250 per kW extra – for a 6.6kW system, this equals around a $1500 difference (assuming all other components are the exact same).
Type of Cells
The Alpha Pure contains N-type cells while the TwinPeak 4 has P-Type cells. But what does that actually mean? N-type cells (like in the Alpha Pure) are usually more efficient and are not affected by light-induced degradation (LID). On the other hand, P-type cells (like in the TwinPeak 4) are more common & also more affordable. The downside to P-Type cells is they may get boron-oxygen defects, which can degrade the cells quicker and decrease efficiency.
Appearance
Alpha Pure has a sleek, all-black design. The standard TwinPeak 4 has visible silver “busbars” lines on the face of the panel.
Lead-Free
The Alpha Pure is ‘lead-free’ – this pretty much means that they are better for the environment.
FAQs about REC
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.
Where are REC solar panels made?
Singapore.
REC solar panels (including the TwinPeak 4 and Alpha range) are manufactured in Tuas, Singapore.
How long have REC solar panels been around?
25+ years.
REC was founded in Norway in 1996 and manufactured their first solar panels in 1997.
Why choose a REC Solar Professional?
Through the REC Solar Professional installer certification program, REC ensures solar installers are equipped with the know-how and best practices to install REC panels. Some of the benefits of going through a REC Solar Professional are:
- Extended warranty: You qualify for an additional five years on your 20-year product warranty, making the total manufacturer’s warranty period 25 years.
- Quality installation: Take comfort in knowing that your solar installer has been carefully selected and certified by REC.
- Peace of mind: Knowing that not only is the solar panel of high quality but also that the person installing it is also highly skilled and has been trained by REC, gives end customers greater peace of mind for the quality of the installation.
Is REC a good solar 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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