Founded in 1996 in Norway, the Singapore-based Renewable Energy Company (REC) is an award-winning and reputable name in solar panel manufacturing. The company uses the latest technology and modern manufacturing processes to offer solar panels with high performance, efficiency, and reliability.
In this review, take a closer look at REC’s products, warranties, and customer reviews and find out why many of the best solar installers use the company’s panels.
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What Do We Think of REC Solar Panels?
REC offers modern solar panels with high efficiency ratings and state-of-the-art technology. Its Alpha series solar panels come with heterojunction (HJT) solar cells, which use multiple layers of silicon, the semiconductor used to generate power from sunlight. This technology offers higher efficiency and performance than traditional solar panels.
REC also offers the Twinpeak series, which is made of half-cell solar panels. A half-cell solar panel combines two small solar panels with all the cells cut in half, offering better performance, especially in partially shaded conditions. REC was the first company to introduce half-cell panels over 10 years ago.
Here are some pros and cons of the company:
Pros
- Offers modern solar panel technology
- Has a large number of certified installation partners nationwide
- Has extended warranty options and product support
Cons
- Is slightly more expensive than competitors
- Doesn’t include detailed product information on its website
REC Solar Panel Options
REC has two solar panel models to choose from, which we’ve listed below:
- Alpha Pure: The REC Alpha series is the company’s star product, leading in power density, efficiency, warranty, temperature coefficient, appearance, durability, and environmental sustainability. The panels are made using heterojunction technology (HJT), which is a hybrid between crystalline silicon and amorphous solar technology that offers high power and efficiency at a competitive price point. REC claims the Alpha series delivers around 16% more power than conventional panels.
- Twinpeak 4: The Twinpeak uses passivated emitter rear cell (PERC) technology, which includes an added layer at the base of the panel’s solar cells to trap more sunlight and produce more power. Plus, this series uses a unique “twin” design that enables electricity generation even when partially shaded. The company guarantees these panels with a 25-year power output warranty.
Here’s how each model breaks down in terms of features:
| Model | Efficiency | Power Output | Temperature Coefficient | Power Output at 25-Years-Old |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Alpha Pure |
22.2%–22.6% |
390–470 watts |
-0.24 |
92% |
|
Twinpeak 4 |
20.8% |
390–415 watts |
-0.34 |
86% |
REC Warranty Options
REC’s warranties vary slightly based on what company installs your panels. The manufacturer offers 25-year warranties for solar panels installed by REC-certified companies, putting it in the top tier of solar warranties.
Generally, REC solar panels come with the following warranties:
- 20-year product warranty that covers panel defects
- 25-year power output warranty that ensures panels will produce at least 92% (for the Alpha series) or 86% (for the Twinpeak series) of their nameplate power
REC Solar Panel Installation Process
REC does not install solar panels itself, but has numerous installation partners nationwide. The company has a rigorous training program to ensure best-in-class service. You can find a REC-certified installer by using the map and ZIP code features on the company’s website. Using a REC-certified installer qualifies you for the ProTrust extended warranty. There are REC-certified installers in most U.S. states.
REC panels are installed by various solar installation companies across the country, so the installation process can vary. Here’s a general idea of what you can expect:
- Site assessment: A technician will measure your roof’s area and slope and determine project specifications.
- Permitting: The installation company will acquire all necessary permits before starting installation.
- Installation: The solar company will arrive at your home on the scheduled day and complete installation.
- Inspection: The company should arrange an inspection with your local building department once the panels are installed.
- Activation: Your installer will work with your utility company to receive Permission to Operate (PTO) for your system. Be aware that this can take up to six weeks.
REC Payment Options
REC’s installation partners may offer varying payment options. Typically, solar installers have up to four different payment options. Here’s an overview of common solar financing methods:
- Cash purchase: An up-front cash payment is the most straightforward option. It allows you to own your solar system right away and qualifies you for cost-saving solar tax incentives.
- Solar loan: If you can’t afford such a large initial investment or prefer to pay over time, you can opt for a solar loan. This allows you to pay for the system in installments but offers the same benefits as a cash purchase, including system ownership and access to tax incentives. The downside is that you’ll pay more for your system in total due to interest rates.
- Solar leases: A solar lease allows you to pay a fixed monthly rate to use the system. However, your solar company will retain ownership, so you won’t be able to access solar tax incentives.
- Power purchase agreements: Power purchase agreements, or PPAs, let you pay a fixed price for the power you generate each month, similar to an electric bill. As with solar leases, you won’t be your system’s legal owner and are disqualified from tax incentives.
Compare Solar Providers
REC is a solar panel manufacture that doesn’t directly install its products. However, homeowners can request a quote from leading solar companies that offer REC panels, such as Blue Raven Solar. Compare Blue Raven Solar and our team’s other top-rated picks below.
Note: Not every company included in the table above offers REC solar panels. Contact each installer to learn more about panel offerings in your area.
Our Conclusion
Our research suggests that REC is a reliable solar panel provider that makes high-quality products. The company’s use of HJT and PERC technologies helps ensure high efficiencies and durability, which can add to your investment value when installing solar power. Homeowners can find a REC-certified solar professional on the company’s website. We found that you can easily locate a certified installer with warranty coverage if you install from one of REC’s partners.
FAQs About REC Solar Panels
Are REC solar panels made in China?
REC solar panels are not made in China. They are manufactured in Singapore. ChemChina previously owned REC, but Reliance New Energy Solar acquired the company in 2021.
How much does a REC solar panel cost?
REC’s website is vague about pricing. We estimate most REC solar systems to be priced at $2.32–$3.10 per watt. This totals $13,920–$18,600 for a typical 6 kilowatt (kW) system before applying any tax credits or incentives.
What are the benefits of REC solar panels?
REC solar panels have several benefits. The company’s Alpha series is award-winning, with around 20% more power than conventional 320-watt peak (Wp) solar panels and an impressive power density of 217 watts per square meter. REC’s Alpha warranty promises 92% of nameplate power after 25 years. This gives customers both immediate and long-term financial gains.
How long do REC panels last?
REC’s N-Peak and Twinpeak panels have a 20-year product warranty and a 25-year power output warranty. Panels in the REC Alpha Pure series have 25-year warranties if installed by a REC-certified professional. It’s not uncommon for panels to last and perform beyond their warranty periods.
Our Rating Methodology
Our team provides comprehensive and unbiased solar reviews to help readers like you find the best solar products for your home. We’ve rated and reviewed providers based on research into national and local solar installers, interviews with industry experts, and by reading customer reviews. Our detailed rating system is based on the following factors, which we averaged together to arrive at a final 5-star rating for each company.
- Solar equipment, installation, and services (25%)
- Warranty and performance guarantees (25%)
- Brand reputation and certifications (15%)
- Financing options (15%)
- Experience (10%)
- Availability (10%)