REC Group Solar Panels
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Everything you need to know about REC solar panels
Written by Max Kennerk, SolarCommission.Org
Updated 9-20-25
REC Group is a Norwegian solar panel manufacturer that has earned a reputation for producing high-quality, reliable, and efficient solar energy solutions. They are one of the leading suppliers in the global solar industry, with a focus on both residential and commercial markets.
Company History in the Solar Market:
Founded in 1996 in Norway, REC Group initially started as a small company focused on producing silicon products for the solar industry. Over time, the company grew to become a significant player in the global solar market, producing solar cells, panels, and other related technologies.
REC has built a strong reputation for sustainable production practices, and its products are known for high performance and durability. In 2015, REC Group was acquired by China National Chemical Corporation (ChemChina) and later by the state-owned Sinochem, which further solidified its position in the international solar market.
As of today, REC Group continues to be a leading solar manufacturer, with a strong focus on both research and development as well as sustainability in its manufacturing processes.
REC Group Solar Equipment:
REC offers a variety of solar panels that are designed to meet the needs of different consumers. Their product lineup includes panels aimed at both residential and commercial use, with a range of efficiencies and features.
REC Alpha Series:
Alpha Pure Series: REC’s premium solar panels, featuring their most advanced technology. The Alpha panels use Heterojunction (HJT) and Back Contact (IBC) technologies, combining high-efficiency cells with excellent performance, even in low-light and high-temperature environments.
Alpha Series Efficiency: These panels are known for their high efficiency (up to 21.7% efficiency for the Alpha Pure series), which allows for more power generation even with limited roof space.
REC TwinPeak Series:
The TwinPeak 4 and TwinPeak 2 series use PERC (Passivated Emitter Rear Cell) technology, which provides higher efficiency and better performance in low-light conditions than traditional monocrystalline panels.
The TwinPeak series is designed for residential use and is often seen as a more affordable option compared to the high-end Alpha series while still offering good efficiency (around 20.3% for the TwinPeak 4).
Solar Panels for Commercial Use:
REC Group also produces larger-format panels suitable for commercial and industrial solar systems, with high-efficiency and durability suited to larger installations.
Pros of REC Group Solar Panels:
High Efficiency: REC’s premium products, such as the Alpha series, offer some of the highest efficiency rates in the industry (up to 21.7%). Even their more budget-friendly models, like the TwinPeak series, offer solid efficiency at ~20%.
Innovative Technology: REC uses advanced solar technologies like HJT (Heterojunction with Intrinsic Thin Layer) and PERC, which enhance the efficiency of the cells and improve performance under real-world conditions such as partial shading or high temperatures.
Good Warranty: REC offers a 25-year product warranty and a 25-year performance warranty for most of its products, which is in line with industry standards and reflects the long-term reliability of their panels.
Sustainability: The company is known for its commitment to sustainability, with many of its manufacturing processes being environmentally friendly. REC panels are RE100-certified, meaning they are produced using renewable energy.
Global Reach & Reliability: With a long-standing global presence, REC has established a robust supply chain and customer support network. They also have strong service and warranty coverage worldwide.
Cons of REC Group Solar Panels:
Premium Pricing for Top Models: The high-efficiency Alpha series comes with a premium price tag, which may not be ideal for consumers looking for lower upfront costs. While they’re highly efficient, the initial investment could be more expensive than other brands with slightly lower performance.
Limited Models for Smaller Budgets: While REC offers a range of products, their premium offerings might overshadow more budget-friendly models, which could be limiting for those looking for a more economical option without compromising too much on quality.
Availability in Certain Regions: Depending on your location, REC panels may not be as easily available as those from other global manufacturers. This might affect both the installation process and local support services.
Size and Weight of Panels: Some of REC’s panels, particularly the high-efficiency Alpha series, can be slightly larger and heavier compared to other brands. This might require more effort during installation and could be a consideration for certain roof types or configurations.
Solar Commission’s Expert Review:
Based on their performance, reliability, and market reputation, The Solar Commission would rate REC Group Solar Panels at 87/100. Here's the reasoning behind this rating:
Strengths (rated highly):
High Efficiency (21.7% for Alpha Series) - REC's premium models like the Alpha series offer exceptional efficiency, which is a major strength, especially for installations with limited space. This efficiency contributes to better energy output, and the company’s use of advanced technologies like HJT and PERC is a notable advantage.
Innovative Technology - REC’s incorporation of the latest technologies like Heterojunction (HJT) and PERC for better performance in high temperatures and partial shading adds value, especially for homes or businesses in regions with these challenges.
25-Year Warranty - The long product and performance warranties show that REC stands behind the durability and reliability of its products, offering peace of mind to customers in the long term.
Sustainability and Manufacturing - REC’s commitment to sustainability (e.g., using renewable energy for manufacturing) and environmentally-friendly practices adds extra value for eco-conscious consumers.
Weaknesses (lowering the rating):
Premium Pricing - The high price of the Alpha series, while justified by its efficiency and advanced technology, could deter some potential buyers. The upfront cost is significantly higher than many competitors, which reduces the overall accessibility of the product.
Limited Budget-Friendly Options - While the TwinPeak series is more affordable, the range of lower-cost products from REC is somewhat limited compared to other brands with a broader price spectrum, which could be a downside for budget-conscious buyers.
Panel Size and Weight - The larger and heavier panels, especially in the Alpha series, may be challenging for certain roof types or installations. This might also impact installation costs and time.
Availability and Support - Although REC has a solid international presence, in some regions, availability might be limited compared to other brands like SunPower, LG, or Canadian Solar. This could be a consideration for those looking for easy access to parts or installation support.
Final Rating:
87/100 reflects the fact that REC offers a high-quality product with industry-leading technology and strong warranties, but the price and some of the logistical considerations (like availability and weight) hold it back from a perfect score. If budget isn’t a primary concern and you’re after high performance with sustainability in mind, REC is an excellent choice.
Summary:
REC Group is a well-established and reputable solar panel manufacturer, known for its innovation and commitment to sustainability. Their solar panels are highly efficient, especially their Alpha series, which uses cutting-edge technology to deliver top-tier performance. With excellent warranties and strong customer support, REC provides a reliable option for residential and commercial solar solutions.
However, their premium pricing and the relatively large size of some of their panels may be a factor to consider depending on your budget and installation needs. Overall, if you're seeking a blend of high efficiency, durability, and sustainability, REC solar panels are a solid choice, especially if you’re willing to make the investment for long-term energy savings.
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