Vectur Energy is cleaning up the industry with state-of-the-art technology, says founder and managing director Tim Gardiner.

As the global push towards achieving net zero by 2050 gains momentum, green energy firms are under increasing pressure to align their practices with their environmental commitments.

One of the critical challenges facing all sectors is the precise reporting of emissions, including carbon dioxide (CO2), methane and other greenhouse gases like sulphur hexafluoride (SF6) found in offshore switchgear and transformers.

In response to the tightening legislative landscape, energy operators are not only morally obligated to be transparent about their emissions but are also expected to take proactive steps to minimise their environmental impact.

At Vectur Energy, we specialise in asset integrity solutions for the energy sector. Together with non-executive director Chris Mawtus, our leadership team has a cumulative 65 years’ industry experience, including international work with major oil and gas companies.

We are now applying this expertise to the realms of nuclear and renewables, having identified gaps in the way emissions are reported across the entire energy sector.

Accurate detection

A crucial question for energy operators is: “How do you know what your emissions are? You might have reported on it, but how did you get that data?”

Vectur has collaborated with a Madrid-based company, serving as the UK distributor for its AI-powered cameras, which can detect upwards of 400 gases.

These cameras, known as optical gas imaging (OGI) cameras, utilise intelligent thermography and infrared technology to detect and quantify gas leaks, flames and temperature rises.

East Anglian Daily Times: The cameras use intelligent thermography and infrared technology to detect and quantify gas leaks, flames and temperature risesThe cameras use intelligent thermography and infrared technology to detect and quantify gas leaks, flames and temperature rises (Image: SENSIA)
The sophisticated software within the cameras can learn as it goes, providing real-time emissions data and 24/7 coverage. This ensures compliant companies have hard evidence, while non-compliant ones have a baseline to work from.

The OGI cameras are also multi-functional – serving security applications beyond emissions detection.

Long-term efficiencies

Some companies may be nervous about knowing the true extent of their emissions – including those resulting from gas leaks – because of the potential cost of any repairs. However, it’s important to understand that reducing emissions can actually be financially rewarding.

Vectur recently partnered with Risk Solved, an industry insurance expert, to enhance risk mitigation for companies considering renewable solutions. Vectur highlighted how the multi-functional cameras can check for emissions, quantify them and scan for early detection of potential hot spots to ensure buildings remain insurable.

For example, through intelligent thermography and early detection, the cameras can contribute to the prevention of fires – giving insurers the necessary confidence to cover solar panel installations and other renewables projects.

Integrity in every service

Vectur’s offerings extend beyond risk detection, encompassing qualified professionals who can repair leaks, maintain offshore assets and manage projects across the energy spectrum.

In the nuclear sector, additional services include asset utility electrification, fluid pressure testing, pumping and non-destructive testing – all aimed at adding integrity to the industry.

Other areas of expertise range from energy connectivity and cable jointing to well integrity management.

A poorly maintained well can result in uncontrolled leaks of hydrocarbons, causing personnel injuries, production losses, asset and environmental damage.

East Anglian Daily Times: Tim Gardiner, Vectur Energy founder and managing directorTim Gardiner, Vectur Energy founder and managing director (Image: Vectur Energy)
We understand the importance of having direct access to a reliable well integrity management system (WIMS) that is tailored to a client’s needs, and with clear processes and procedures at its core.

Our specialist team can work alone or embedded in a client’s operations team as part of a specific project – providing thorough and detailed documentation that is frequently reviewed in order to implement improvements. This ensures continuous high-level operations over the full lifecycle of the well, which are in line with international standards.

Energy connectivity services cover the nuclear, offshore and onshore utility sectors – encompassing the testing and commissioning of underground and subsea power cables.

Looking ahead, Vectur is aiming to expand aggressively across the UK in 2024, as well as supporting local companies with solar projects, nuclear electrical installations and biogas initiatives.

This aligns with the industry’s collective effort towards a cleaner, greener future and achieving net zero by 2050.

As a company, we stand as a pioneering force, utilising cutting-edge technology to drive positive change within the energy sector.

For more information, please visit vecturenergy.com or call the team on 01953 550546.