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. We’re totally confident in both panels’ performance, reliability, and longevity.
How are they similar? Both panels feature a half-cut design, have an impressive 25 year 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.
THE STATS
| REC Alpha Pure | REC TwinPeak 4 |
| 132 cell half-cut solar panel | 120 cell half-cut solar panel |
WATTAGE (SIZE OPTIONS) | 385kW, 390kW, 395kW, 400kW, 405kW, 410kW | 360kW, 365kW, 370kW, 375kW |
PRODUCT WARRANTY | 25 years | 25 years |
PERFORMANCE WARRANTY | 92% at year 25 | 86% at year 25 |
TYPE OF CELLS | N-Type | P-Type |
MAX EFFICIENCY | 20.8% – 22.2% | 19.7% – 20.5% |
ANNUAL DEGRADATION | 0.25% | 0.50% |
DIMENSIONS | 1821 x 1016 x 30 mm | 1755 x 1040 x 30 mm |
WHERE THEY ARE MADE | Singapore | Singapore |
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 more sustainable.
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?
How long have REC solar panels been around?
Why choose a certified REC Solar Professional?
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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