REC Solar is a leading manufacturer of high-quality solar panels with over 25 years of experience in the solar industry. Renewable Energy Corporation, known as REC, designs and manufactures solar panels for both commercial and residential properties.
REC has four product ranges—Alpha Pure, Alpha Pure-R, Twin Peak 4, and Twin Peak 5—that suit all home types and energy consumption needs. Currently, REC has manufactured over 46 million panels, enabling 20.5 million people to power their homes.
REC is committed to empowering the world to switch to solar energy through its innovative solar technology. Its solar panels are recognised for their exceptional quality and surprisingly affordable prices. REC has a Scandinavian base and operates multinational offices, including a state-of-the-art factory in Singapore.
We’ll explain everything you need to know about REC solar panels and renewable energy, including an in-depth look at the different panels and their possible impact on your energy bills.
REC Solar In More Detail
REC was founded in Norway in 1996, and its headquarters are still based there. Solar panel production was moved to Singapore in 2010 to lower manufacturing costs and to focus on the delivery of high automation production to scale their offerings, and REC now has its operational headquarters there. By 2012, REC had closed all its Norwegian manufacturing bases.
In 2014, REC Group was bought by a state-owned Chinese corporation named BlueStar and then sold again in 2021 to an Indian multinational subsidiary, Reliance Industries Limited.
REC Group is listed as a Tier 1 solar panel manufacturer by Bloomberg New Energy Finance (BNEF). It has regional hubs in North America, Asia, and Europe. Widely viewed as an industry pioneer in the development of leading technology, the stats are impressive. REC panels retain 86%-92% of power throughout a panel’s entire 25-year lifespan across the whole product range.
REC Alpha Pure R and Alpha Pure series have a maximum annual degradation level of 0.25%.
REC Solar Panel: An Overview Of Key Features and Benefits
- REC Solar offers a wide range of solar panels, including the REC Alpha Pure Series and the REC Alpha Pure R, for both residential and commercial customers.
- The REC Alpha Pure-R offers high power levels and quality products with ethical manufacturing processes.
- The panels feature high power density, anti-reflective surface treatment, and lead-free materials for improved performance and sustainability for exceptional quality and performance.
- REC Solar’s panels are designed to provide more energy and reduce energy bills for homeowners.
- The panels are built with “anodized aluminum” frames for durability and longevity.
- Alpha Pure R features advanced technology that maintains energy generation even in shaded conditions, a priority for many households in Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
- REC Solar provides a 20-year product warranty and a 25-year performance warranty for its solar panels.
REC Solar Panels: The Detail
We’ve picked a selection of REC’s best solar panels aimed at different user needs. You can see the panel specifications to help you select the right one for your needs.
REC Alpha Pure-RX 470W
The REC Alpha Pure-RX 470W is part of REC’s newest product range and is recommended for energy-thirsty homes. Its twin-panel design with advanced innovative cell structure reduces internal resistance by splitting the panel into four sections to produce more power. The gapless cell layout captures more sunlight without the need to increase panel size. Maximum annual degradation is 0.25%
| Cell | Half-cut Bifacial Heterojunction cells |
| No. of cells | 88 |
| Rated Maximum Power (Pmax) | 430W |
| Maximum Efficiency | 22.6% |
| Junction Box | 4 bypass diodes, IP68 rated |
| Maximum System Voltage | 1000V |
| Operating Temperature | -40℃～+85℃ |
| Connectors | Stäubli MC4 PV-KBT4/KST4 (4 mm²) |
REC Alpha Pure 410W
The REC Alpha Pure 410W is designed for eco-conscious homes with average energy consumption and features REC’s signature gapless cell technology. The twin-panel design lowers internal resistance and optimises power in dull or shaded conditions. The panel is lead-free, in line with REC’s commitment to environmental manufacturing. These panels have barely visible wires, offering a sleek appearance in stylish black with uniformly coloured cells.
| Cell | Half-cut Heterojunction Cells | |
| No. of cells | 132 (6 x 22) | |
| Rated Maximum Power (Pmax) | 410W | |
| Maximum Efficiency | 22.2% | |
| Junction Box | 3 bypass diodes, IP68 rated | |
| Maximum System Voltage | 1000V | |
| Operating Temperature | -40℃～+85℃ | |
| Connectors | Stäubli MC4 PV-KBT4/KST4 (4 mm²) |
REC TwinPeak 5 410W
The REC TwinPeak 5 410W panels start at £90 per panel and are designed for medium-sized properties and households on a budget. They feature REC’s renowned twin-panel design to optimise energy production even in shaded conditions and continue to produce up to 86% power in year 25.
Marketed as one of REC’s most affordable solar panels, the TwinPeak 5 410W is the upgraded version of the TwinPeak 4 which has seen competitors provide more energy-efficient products in the same panel size and price range. The upgraded TwinPeak 5 410W features REC’s twin-panel design, which means you can continue to produce power even in the shade. This, plus the attractive price point, makes the REC TwinPeak 5 410 panels an attractive contender for smaller properties.
For homeowners worried about appearance, the REC TwinPeak 5 410W won’t disappoint. It has elegant good looks and an all-black design. The panel frame is very durable and fitted with extra support bars for homes in areas with high snowfall – particularly great for Scottish customers. The 30mm frame height makes the installer’s job easy, even on buildings where space is at a premium.
However, even with REC’s commitment to technological advancement, you can find panels out there with better energy efficiency at 23% or higher. The split panel design continues to put REC panels towards the top of the list of efficiency, however, which continues to generate energy in conditions of low or no sunlight – always a concern for UK property owners.
| Cell | Half-cut mono c-Si p-type |
| No. of cells | 132 (6 x 22) |
| Rated Maximum Power (Pmax) | 410W |
| Maximum Efficiency | 20.8% |
| Junction Box | 3 bypass diodes, lead-free IP68 rated |
| Maximum System Voltage | 1000V |
| Operating Temperature | -40℃～+85℃ |
| Connectors | Stäubli MC4 PV-KBT4/KST4 (4 mm²)
in accordance with IEC 62852 |
Why Is REC’s Twin-Panel Design So Important?
REC is renowned in the solar energy market for twin panels. In simple terms, the panels are split into two even sections, allowing for a more efficient solar panel than the standard cell design and providing several advantages, including continued energy production in shaded conditions. But there’s more.
The REC Alpha Pure Series RX 470W features a gapless cell layout that increases the surface area to generate power. REC has also introduced advanced cell technology, a design that carries more wires to improve the electrical current whilst reducing the risk of cell damage, directly impacting durability and longevity.
Another facet of REC design is its heterojunction cell technology. This technology offers higher temperature coefficients, so it essentially boosts the energy you produce at the highest temperature point of the day.
Does REC Have A Good Reputation?
REC is renowned throughout the world for its commitment to renewable energy, both in the manufacturing of premium quality solar panels and their sustainable production processes.
Since 2016, REC has scored continuously in the ‘Top Performer’ category of the DNV GL/PVEL PV Module Reliability Scorecard. The DNV GL, a globally recognised leader in PV module testing, produces an annual report which names the industry leaders for solar panel manufacturers.
Continuously striving for improvement and technological advances, REC was an award winner at Inter Solar, the world-class exhibition for Solar PV and solar products. The InterSolar Award is presented to the company that exhibits innovative technological advancement, and REC was awarded this in 2022 for the Alpha Pure Series.
REC Solar Panel Costs
REC solar panels typically cost from £90 to £400 per panel. However, comparing prices on a per-panel basis can be misleading, as most manufacturers and installers will normally quote on a bulk panel order; most homes want more than one!
The final price depends on several factors:-
- The size of the whole installation
- Location
- Whether you opt to have a solar battery
- Installation costs
- Potential eligibility for a grant or interest-free loan
Overall installation costs for a solar panel system will run into a few thousand pounds, and many installers offer finance packages to help spread the cost. It’s worth shopping around on installation costs and finance, as extortionate interest charges will eat into your energy savings.
How To Reduce Solar Panel Costs
Different funding schemes can help with the cost of solar panel installation. The new Labour government is committed to working with the private sector to triple solar power by 2030, part of its pledge to green energy solutions. Here are some different options.
- The ECO4 Scheme is a government grant that offers help to low-income households who would otherwise not be able to afford to upgrade their homes with environmental improvements to reduce their energy consumption. The Scheme covers home insulation, boiler upgrades, and solar panels. Usually, only homes with an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) of D or lower are eligible.
- Solar Together is a group-buying scheme that allows households to join together, potentially generating savings of between 30% and 50% on the cost of solar panels.
- The Home Energy Scotland Grant and Loan is a grant and interest-free loan scheme from the Scottish government for solar panels and is available to most households. The grant does not have to be repaid. If you live in a rural area, like the Scottish Highlands, then you may be entitled to more money.
- The Home Upgrade Grant offers funding for solar panels for low-income and off-grid households, helping with some of the costs of adding energy-efficient measures to properties.
How To Find A Good REC Solar Panel Installer
Shop around before you make a final decision on an installation company for your REC solar panels. Poor installation will impact your REC product warranty.
REC’s website has a search facility for finding a REC-certified installer, making it easy to find one. REC Certified Solar Professional installers are trained and certified by REC so households can enjoy the dual benefit of premium quality panels combined with skilled installation. Plus, they’ll qualify for the REC ProTrust warranty.
The REC ProTrust Warranty covers the product for 25 years, the panels’ performance for 25 years, and labour installation for either 10 or 25 years. Even if the installation company goes out of business, your REC ProTrust Warranty will still apply.
Final Thoughts
With a long product warranty, low degradation rate, and unique twin panel design, REC solar panels continue to be popular even though, on a simple panel comparison basis, other providers out there may offer a more attractive price and higher energy production. Consequently, REC tends to sit in the middle of panel review tables.
Understanding the advantages of REC solar panels demonstrates that finding the right solar panel for your home involves more than just looking at price and energy output. Many industry commentators feel that REC has the right balance, offering the right mix of power and price with one of the best degradation rates on the market. That’s important as it takes many years to recoup the cost of a solar installation. That said, there are cheaper options and products with better performance; it just depends on your priorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are REC’s Commitments To Sustainability And Environmental Responsibility?
REC is committed to environmental principles and uses sustainable manufacturing methods, high-efficiency innovations, and equitable work practices. REC is dedicated to ensuring that its solar panels are produced responsibly.
How Does Installation Impact REC Solar’s Product Warranties?
Solar panels fitted by a REC-certified installer enjoy a 25-year product warranty and 25-year performance and labour warranties. Panels installed by any other company have 20-year warranties.
Is There Anything Not Covered By REC’s Product Warranty?
Unlike other solar technology warranties, REC does not cover the inverter. A solar inverter, sometimes called a photovoltaic (PV) inverter, converts the electricity generated by solar panels from direct current (DC) into alternating current (AC) power for your home. A solar inverter also acts as the principal connection point between the panels and the distribution panel in the house.
Should I Include A Solar Battery With REC Solar Panels?
A solar battery allows you to store surplus electricity generated by your solar panels for later use. However, the price of a solar battery can impact the cost of your solar installation, with the average cost for a three-bedroom house of £4,500. Solar batteries also only last an average of around 12 years, so you’ll probably need to buy another battery to match the lifespan of your REC panels.
What Is A Tier 1 Solar Panel?
A Tier 1 Bloomberg rating is awarded to companies with financial stability, reliability, and premium-quality products. REC solar panels have been awarded the Tier 1 Bloomberg rating.
How Long Does It Take To Install REC Solar Panels?
Installation time depends on the size of the system and the complexity of the design. Your solar panel installer will carry out a site survey and be able to advise you of the time it will take. How quickly you can install the panels depends on stock availability and how busy your installer is.
Will REC Solar Panels Impact The Value Of My Property?
Homeowners often worry that solar panels devalue the aesthetic appearance of their property, which could outweigh the benefits they receive on energy savings at sale time. One advantage of REC solar technology is its sleek, black design and uniform appearance, making it far more discreet than other products. An estate agency survey conducted by Which? found that 67% of estate agents maintained that solar panels made no difference to a property’s value, either positively or negatively. A lot depends on your property type and the houses around it. If you live in a close of new builds, all of which have solar panels, then adding them to your home probably won’t make a difference. However, solar panels may impact the value if you have a period, country home in a conservation area or standing in isolation in a beautiful landscape.
Can You Buy REC Solar Panels For A DIY Installation?
No, REC solar panels can only be fitted by a solar panel installation company.
Does It Matter If My Roof Is Shaded?
Yes, it does, as you want to put solar panels on a roof area that captures the maximum amount of sunshine. REC solar panels do work in shaded conditions but this is to counter cloudy/gloomy days and not a reason to install them on roofs that don’t have a lot of natural light.
