REC, which stands for the Renewable Energy Corporation, is headquartered in Singapore. The journey of REC began in Norway in 1996, and between 1997 and 2010, they were actively involved in the production of wafers, solar cells, and solar panels in Scandinavia, spanning Norway and Sweden.
In a significant move in 2010, REC leapt by establishing a cutting-edge, automated factory in Singapore, integrating the production of wafers, cells, and solar panels. In 2015, REC witnessed a significant development when it was acquired by Norway’s Elkem Group (Bluestar Investment Co Ltd.) for a substantial sum of 490 million euros.
Notably, ChemChina, one of China’s leading state-owned chemical companies, held a stake in Bluestar at the time. Fast forward to October 2021, and the story took another twist.
Reliance Industries, a prominent Indian conglomerate, secured complete control of REC through its subsidiary, Reliance Energy Solar Ltd., in a substantial deal valued at US$771 million. REC has left a notable mark in the renewable energy sector, with a remarkable track record that includes:
- The production of over 46 million panels
- An impressive 13.4 gigawatts of energy generated
- An estimated 20.5 million households are powered by their solutions
(source – REC)
REC Solar boasts manufacturing facilities in both Singapore and Norway, with its solar panels distributed in over 80 countries across the globe. The company is renowned for its cutting-edge technology, exceptional efficiency, and long-lasting products.
Dedicated to sustainability, REC Solar has set an ambitious target to achieve carbon neutrality by 2025. With a substantial production capacity of 1.5 gigawatts for solar modules, they are a frontrunner in the industry.
Recognitions and accolades include:
- In 2014, EuPD Research acknowledged REC Solar as a top PV brand.
- REC Pea Energy solar panels received the Photon Test award the same year, praised for their remarkable efficiency and durability.
- The innovative REC TwinPeak solar panel earned them the prestigious Intersolar Award in the ‘Photovoltaics’ category in 2015, highlighting the technology that enhances efficiency and performance.
- In 2017, REC Solar received the Solar Panel Portal Award for their exceptional contribution to a 5-megawatt solar project in Jordan, recognised as the best international solar project.
- A year later, in 2018, they earned another Solar Panel Portal Award, this time for their remarkable work on a 10-megawatt solar project in Singapore, again distinguished as the best international solar project.
- Most recently, in 2020, REC Solar’s REC Alpha solar panel secured the Intersolar Award in the ‘Photovoltaics’ category, showcasing their continuous commitment to innovation.
Australia – REC Solar
Level 17, 31 Queen Street
Melbourne, VIC 3000
Tel : +61 (03) 9020 2056
Email – anzrcsp@recgroup.com
Should you want to make a claim online, click here for a warranty claim form.
For the most up to date product offering, direct from REC, then please follow the links.
Pros
PRO – Tier 1 company
PRO – Australian Office
PRO – High efficiency rating
PRO – Great durability and can withstand harsh conditions
PRO – Good long warranties – 25 Year +
PRO – Sustainability – they use a closed- loop manufacturing process that minimises waste and reduces environmental impact.
PRO – According to Sinovoltaics analysis of financials, JA Solar sit in 6th place in the world. (source – Sinovoltaics report 2022)
Cons
CON – More expensive than other panels.
CON – Indian company produced in Singapore.
Our Thoughts
A really good quality product, although their price can make them less accessible for some consumers. They are ‘known’ in the marketplace as a Singaporean company, although it is in fact an Indian owned company, it’s just they are manufactured in Singapore.
Has a very long trading history, one of the first solar manufacturers to start, back in 1996.
The Australian office allows for warranty issues to be catered for, even if your installation company disappears.
They will be a good choice by anyone and will last the test of time and produce power for years to come.
We would put them on our own house or business.
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