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Williams Advanced Engineering Makes Landmark Investment in Clean Technology

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Williams Advanced Engineering has embarked on a new journey by making its first investment in the dynamic field of clean technology. This groundbreaking investment in Utonomy signifies a strategic move towards fostering innovation and sustainability.

Williams Advanced Engineering Enters Investment Arena

Williams Advanced Engineering, a stalwart in the field of precision engineering, has ventured into investment by backing Utonomy, a company known for its innovative gas grid solutions. With an investment of £500,000, Williams marks its debut in the investment landscape through the Foresight Williams Technology EIS Fund. This move is expected to elevate the capabilities of both entities involved.

Utonomy’s Ground-breaking Technology

Established in 2015, Utonomy has been at the forefront of addressing the significant issue of methane leakage in gas distribution networks. Their revolutionary Internet of Things (IoT) solution employs cloud-based software to optimise gas pressures, significantly curbing methane emissions. This technology addresses a critical global challenge, as gas leaks contribute 1.7 billion tonnes of CO2-equivalent emissions annually.

The economic implications of methane leakage are profound, costing consumers an estimated £5 billion each year. By integrating electro-mechanical actuators with intelligent software, Utonomy’s solution offers a practical approach to this environmental and economic problem. The partnership with Williams Advanced Engineering is poised to enhance Utonomy’s efforts in refining this technology.

The Strategic Partnership with Williams Advanced Engineering

This collaboration represents a synergy between Williams’ engineering expertise and Utonomy’s pioneering technology. Williams’ extensive experience in systems integration and optimisation is anticipated to bolster the development of Utonomy’s actuator technology, a key component of their gas network management system.

Matthew Burke, head of technology ventures at Williams Advanced Engineering, expressed optimism regarding the partnership, stating that their engineers are eager to work with Utonomy. The collaboration aims to expedite product design and development, capitalising on Williams’ engineering prowess.

For Williams, this investment signifies their strategic shift towards sustainable technologies, aligning with global efforts to reduce carbon footprints. The partnership is expected to contribute positively to the reduction of methane emissions globally, while also propelling Utonomy towards commercial success.

Navigating the Global Methane Challenge

Methane leakage presents a formidable global challenge, with far-reaching environmental and economic consequences. Utonomy’s solution is positioned to address this issue effectively by reducing emissions and offering cost efficiencies. As the world grapples with climate change, such innovations are critical in achieving sustainability targets.

Utonomy CEO Adam Kingdon has emphasised the importance of this investment to realise their vision of becoming a leader in methane emission reduction. Kingdon stated, “We are thrilled to have the backing of Williams and Foresight, which will enable us to complete product development and customer trials.” This investment not only reinforces Utonomy’s commitment to innovation but also their ambition to expand globally.

The Role of Foresight in Utonomy’s Expansion

Foresight plays an instrumental role in this venture, leveraging their experience in scaling businesses to aid Utonomy’s global expansion. By providing not only financial support but also strategic guidance, Foresight will assist Utonomy in commercialising its technology efficiently.

Utonomy stands to benefit considerably from this comprehensive support, as it seeks to establish itself as a world leader in addressing methane emissions. The collaboration with both Foresight and Williams Advanced Engineering positions Utonomy at the cutting-edge of the clean energy sector, offering promising prospects for international growth and development.

This strategic investment exemplifies a model approach that blends innovative technology, expert engineering, and visionary leadership to tackle some of the most pressing environmental issues of our time.

Advancing Towards Sustainable Futures

The combined efforts of Williams Advanced Engineering and Utonomy underscore a broader shift towards sustainable technologies in engineering and energy sectors. By supporting companies like Utonomy, Williams is not only investing in business growth but also contributing to a more sustainable future.

The potential impact of this partnership extends beyond commercial success, aiming to significantly reduce methane emissions and promote eco-friendly practices in technology and engineering. This move aligns with global objectives of sustainability and environmental responsibility.

Looking Ahead

As Williams Advanced Engineering and Utonomy forge ahead with their partnership, the focus remains on advancing technological innovation to address critical environmental challenges.

With continued support from Foresight, both companies are well-positioned to deliver impactful solutions in the fight against climate change, ultimately aiming for a profound transformation in energy management and sustainability.


The alliance between Williams Advanced Engineering and Utonomy is set to accelerate the development of pioneering solutions in gas distribution and methane emission reduction. By leveraging their combined strengths, both companies are well-equipped to make significant strides in environmental sustainability.

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