LONGi vs REC Solar Panels

Head-to-head comparison for Australian homes in 2026.

SpecLONGiREC
CountryChinaNorway
Tiermid-rangepremium
Efficiency22.3%22.2%
Product Warranty15 years25 years
Performance Warranty25 years25 years
Degradation Rate0.4%/yr0.25%/yr
Price per kW$1000-$1500$1300-$1800
Panel Wattage445W430W
Cell TypeHPBC MonocrystallineHJT Monocrystalline
Best ForHomeowners wanting top-tier technology at a mid-range price pointQuality-focused homeowners in hot climates wanting premium European engineering

LONGi

Pros

  • + World's largest mono-silicon producer (vertically integrated)
  • + Industry-leading efficiency
  • + 15-year product warranty
  • + Heavy R&D investment
  • + Excellent degradation rate

Cons

  • - Slightly more expensive than Jinko/Trina
  • - Chinese-manufactured
  • - Some installers prefer other brands for availability

REC

Pros

  • + 25-year product AND performance warranty
  • + Excellent hot weather performance (low temp coefficient)
  • + Norwegian engineering, Singapore manufacturing
  • + Lead-free, RoHS compliant
  • + Recommended by premium installers

Cons

  • - Premium pricing
  • - Less widely available than Tier-1 Chinese brands
  • - Fewer installer options