
Robin Whitlock
Robin is a freelance journalist based in the South West of England, UK. He specialises in environmental issues, climate change and renewable energy, with other interests in transport and green motoring. He is a regular daily correspondent for a renewable energy website, writing news articles and interview pieces on all the main clean energy technologies. He has also written widely for numerous magazines on these topics, as well as writing white papers and web content.
Latest articles by Robin Whitlock

How to clean solar panels — and why never to wash them during a heat wave
By Robin Whitlock, Joseph Mullane last updated
We look at how often you should clean solar panels to keep them working at full efficiency, what is involved as well as how exactly to tackle cleaning them

What are the options for heating your loft conversion? We explore the choices
By Robin Whitlock published
Adding a loft conversion is a popular way to extend a home. But what are the options for loft conversion heating? We explore the choices available and the steps you need to take to ensure it operates efficiently

Can you put a boiler in a loft? We take a look at the pros, cons, costs and more
By Robin Whitlock published
While it's common to see hot water cylinders located in lofts, is putting your boiler in the loft a good idea? Experts explain just what's involved in doing so

The experts explain all the options for heating a house extension
By Robin Whitlock published
Heating a house extension involves finding a solution for your new space and making it work with your existing one. We take a look at the choices available

14 biomass boiler pros and cons to determine if one is suitable for your home
By Robin Whitlock published
We asked heating experts for their thoughts on the pros and cons of biomass boilers, so you can weigh up whether or not one would work in your home

What is an air to air heat pump and how does it work?
By Robin Whitlock published
We look at this type of heat pump, explain how it differs from an air source heat pumps as well as looking at its pros and cons

Biomass boiler vs gas boiler: How do the two options compare?
By Robin Whitlock published
We look at the cost, ease of installation and energy efficiency of these two heat sources, among other factors, to see how they compare

Heat pump vs gas boiler: How do they compare?
By David Hilton, Robin Whitlock last updated
Weighing up a heat pump vs gas boiler? Our expert guide will guide you through the differences and how to make the right choice for your home

Using ground source heat pump and solar panels together — your questions answered
By Robin Whitlock published
Combining a ground source heat pump and solar panels would seem to offer an excellent energy efficient solution. But is it possible and do you need back-up?

Hemp insulation: is this eco-friendly product worth using in your build?
By Robin Whitlock published
We look at the pros and cons of hemp insulation, including how much this highly sustainable material costs and where to buy it

Straw bale insulation: Pros and cons of using this eco-friendly option in your build
By Robin Whitlock published
If you're looking for environmentally-friendly insulation, construction-grade straw bales are a great option. Not only are these cheap but densely-packed straw is fantastic at keeping heat in too

How much does it cost to install a heat pump? Our expert guide to all the factors
By Robin Whitlock published
We take a look at the costs of installing different types of heat pump in existing homes and new builds

Smart Export Guarantee: Can you make money from solar PV panels?
By Robin Whitlock published
The Smart Export Guarantee sees homeowners paid for surplus renewable energy they export to the Grid — so could you make a profit from your solar PV panels? Here’s what you need to know

What is a water source heat pump? Why it might be a smart move for your home
By Robin Whitlock published
We take a look at water source heat pumps and explain why they might be an eco-friendly option to install in your home if you live near water

How much space does a ground source heat pump need? We look at the factors
By Robin Whitlock published
Working out whether your home has enough space for a ground source heat pump is an important first step. We explain how much space they need in must-read guide for those considering this heating option

What is biomass and is the fuel a good alternative to gas and oil?
By Robin Whitlock published
Just what is biomass and can it present a greener alternative to burning fossil fuels? We answer commonly asked questions surrounding biomass fuel

Biomass boiler costs: How much will this gas boiler alternative cost?
By Robin Whitlock published
Find out biomass boiler costs and how much you will need to invest, including installation, fuel, maintenance and the current grants available

Solar thermal vs solar PV panels: Which is the best option for your home?
By Robin Whitlock published
Can't decide between solar thermal vs solar PV panels for your home's renewable energy? Find out what the key differences are and how to weigh up the benefits

Could solar windows be big news for our homes? Plus, how they work
By Robin Whitlock published
Discover solar windows — the very latest in solar panel technology. Our expert guide details everything you need to know and why they're worth waiting for

Solar roof tiles explained: The costs, installation and benefits
By Robin Whitlock published
Solar roof tiles are an elegant way to introduce green tech to homes, particularly those in conservation areas. Discover the installation costs, plus the pros and cons

Do solar panels work in winter? The answer is more complex than you think
By Robin Whitlock published
‘Do solar panels work in winter?’ is a good question to ask and our guide aims to provide you with the answer! We take a look at just how efficient solar panels are in winter, how much energy they can generate and more
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