Gas specialist launches sensor range with funding

A Staffordshire gas detection specialist is expanding internationally and creating new jobs after securing £250,000 to launch its own range of methane sensors.

Stone-based OSS Enviro has secured the loan from the Midlands Engine Investment Fund II (MEIF II) through fund manager Frontier Development Capital.

Founded in 2022 by former Royal Navy weapons engineer Rob Griffiths, OSS Enviro uses optical gas imaging cameras to detect gas leaks from a distance, allowing surveys to be carried out remotely using drones.

It provides detection and repair services to water, utility and waste management companies required to monitor methane and other emissions, alongside supplying equipment.

Rob says the company, which currently employs five people, plans to begin manufacturing the new sensors next month and expects to create eight UK jobs.

It is also preparing to launch operations in France and Estonia, adding to existing overseas sites in Portugal and South Africa.

Rob said: “Optical gas imaging is revolutionising our industry – improving safety by enabling leaks to be detected even in locations where it would be dangerous to send inspectors and helping companies to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases like methane. 

“The funding will enable us to expand our inspection service both at home and our international footprint, and to launch our first product range.”

The new methane sensors will be the first range developed by the company itself and are based on technology developed at the University of the West of Scotland.

OSS Enviro has taken a second unit in Stone to support manufacturing, which is due to begin in October.

The company has trebled its turnover during the past three years and is targeting similar growth over the next three.

Ryan Cartwright, of Frontier Development Capital, added: “With regulations tightening about methane and other dangerous gases, OSS Enviro is operating in a growth market. 

“Rob has built a great business and we are pleased to support him with his ambitious expansion plans.”

Paul Howe, of Howe Commercial Finance, advised the company on the fundraising.

The £400 million MEIF II, operated by the British Business Bank, provides debt finance of £25,000 to £2 million and equity investment up to £5 million to help Midlands-based small and medium-sized businesses start, grow or innovate, aiming to boost sustainable economic growth, increase early-stage funding availability and improve access to finance for firms that might otherwise miss out.

David Tindall, senior investment manager at the British Business Bank, added: “OSS Enviro has developed innovative technology that is helping companies reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enables remote surveys to be carried out.

“We are pleased that this funding will support the business in expanding internationally and launching its new range of methane sensors. 

“The Midlands Engine Investment Fund II was established to support innovative businesses like OSS Enviro, and we are pleased to play a role in helping the company realise its ambitions and continue its growth.”

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