06th Mar 2008 - UKSE helps Cumbernauld firm lead on climate change

A Cumbernauld-based firm is pioneering innovative technology that will help tackle climate change after securing funding support from UK Steel Enterprise (UKSE), the Corus subsidiary tasked with economic regeneration.

Gas Sensing Solutions Ltd, which is headquartered at Lenziemill, Cumbernauld, has developed a low-cost carbon dioxide sensor which has the potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

By using technology that was first developed by the military, Gas Sensing Solution's new sensor can improve the air quality and help minimise the energy consumption of air and heating systems. In addition to this, the sensor can also help save lives by detecting noxious gases that can sometimes leak from the same heating systems that are installed in homes and schools across the UK.

Although there are currently a number of carbon dioxide sensors available on the market, Gas Sensing Solution's sensor is unique as it is much smaller, uses less power, is highly sensitive and measures readings in real time.  Earlier this year the company was shortlisted for the UK Shell Springboard Awards which recognise the efforts of those businesses whose products can address the escalating problem of climate change.

Established in 2005 by managing director Alan Henderson, Gas Sensing Solutions recently secured deals with a number of distributors who will now help the company introduce its products to the global market.

Alan Henderson said: "Our sensor has been in development for over two years and having successfully secured six patents we have worldwide exclusivity on our products.  With the funding from UKSE now in place we are ready to take this sensor to the market and I'm confident that it will play a key role in helping companies reduce their greenhouse gas emissions.

"Our sensor is both cost-effective and highly reliable so the opportunities are endless.  As well as monitoring gas emissions in traditional heating ventilation and air conditioning systems, there are also opportunities to help monitor emissions in the industrial, bio-tech, shipping, landfill gas and mining industries."

Anne Clyde, area manager of UKSE, said: "Scotland is renowned for its expertise in research and development (R&D) and Gas Sensing Solutions' sensor has the potential to make a lasting impact on the electronics sector."

Scottish Enterprise has also worked closely with Gas Sensing Solutions to support its ambitious plans and the company has secured a SMART: SCOTLAND offer of over £200,000 in grant funding to develop a new higher specification carbon dioxide sensor.