Solar Panels
rec Alphα® pure Series
REC Solar makes one of the best solar panels in the world. Each year the independent testing laboratory DNV GL publishes the "PV Module Reliability Scorecard", where solar modules are subjected to rigorous testing and then rated. REC has been awarded "top performer" (the best possible rating) 5 of the last 5 years of this testing.
The REC Alpha also has one of the best warranties available with a 25 year power output warranty and also a 25 year workmanship warranty. The power output warranty states that the panel will produce a market leading 92% of its rated power after 25 years. This is remarkable considering most panels produce only 80% after 25 years. A key distinction of this panel is that the cells are made from two different silicon crystal types. This allows for greater energy harvest during varying light conditions and better response to temperature. All solar panels lose some maximum power potential as they get hot (i.e when it is sunny), but the REC panel loses much less power due to heat because of their unique cell architecture. So with REC you get more power on day 1 due to better temperature and light response, and you also get more energy over time due to the panels design and the quality materials used in construction. This panel has a black frame and black backsheet so it has a very nice appearance as well.
QCELLS SOLAR PANELS
The QCells panels are engineered in Germany and manufactured in South Korea and the US. They fall into the upper range performance category, but come at a slightly lower cost. With their excellent warranty and performance they are as good as it gets before you enter into the "premium" class. As mentioned above, all solar panels degrade slightly over time and most have a warranty that says they will produce 80% of their rated power after 25 years. The Q Cell will produce 86% or more at year 25, which means you will get more energy over time than most of the competition. They have a black frame and black backsheet so look nice as well.