QLM Technology: Pioneering LIDAR technology for a sustainable future

In a recent interview, Hazel Tucker, Partner at Bishop Fleming, had the opportunity to speak with Aaron Van Pelt, the Chief Commercial Officer of QLM Technology Ltd. 

QLM Technology has been making waves in the tech world and for a good reason. They have been shortlisted as finalists for three awards in The Tech South West Awards 2023: Innovation Award, Sustainability Award, and Tech for Good Award.
 

Can you tell us more about the origins of QLM Technology and its mission?

QLM Technology traces its roots to the University of Bristol, and started from an idea of Chief Technical Officer, Xiao Ai. Xiao's postgraduate research at the University explored using high-power lasers and single-photon LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) to measure carbon dioxide gas from a satellite. Xiao paired up with our Chief Executive Officer, Murray Reed. Murray had spent over 30 years developing high-tech laser products in Silicon Valley, saw the potential of Xiao's approach, and identified the know-how QLM needed to take it to market.
 

The company specialises in LIDAR technology with a primary focus on detecting and quantifying methane leaks in methane-intensive infrastructures, including those in oil and gas, natural gas distribution, wastewater treatment plants, agriculture, and more.

They can also extend their capabilities to measure other gases, like CO2 and ammonia. By continuously monitoring the infrastructure and providing real-time data on leaks, operators can prioritise fixing the most significant issues, making a profound impact on reducing methane emissions, a crucial greenhouse gas.
 

How has QLM Technology navigated challenges, especially during the pandemic and supply chain disruptions?

The pandemic and supply chain disruptions posed challenges for QLM Technology, as they did for many companies. We successfully raised funds during these turbulent times, and our ability to adapt and overcome obstacles comes from being a small, agile startup.

We were also able to continue trialling our technology with customers and adapting to remote working and remote engineering. The challenges strengthened our resolve to address the critical issue of methane leaks, especially in the oil and gas industry.

Your company has achieved remarkable growth in a short period. How has this been possible?

QLM Technology's success can be attributed to several factors aligning at the right time. LIDAR technology is gaining prominence, quantum innovation plays a significant role, and there is a growing market focus on reducing methane emissions.

This convergence of factors allowed QLM to develop a unique product tailored to the specific challenge of emissions monitoring and identifying super-emitters and intermittent sources of methane emissions, primarily in the upstream oil and gas sector. Our product combines LIDAR, quantum technology, and a robust market opportunity, so we are well-positioned for success.
 

What does it mean for QLM Technology to be nominated for the Tech South West Awards?

The recognition and nomination for the Tech South West Awards is an honour for QLM Technology. It provides external validation of our innovative approach to addressing methane emissions and helps amplify our message to a broader audience. These awards bolster our position as thought leaders in methane technology and demonstrate our ongoing commitment to tackling critical societal issues.

QLM Technology's journey from its inception at the University of Bristol to being a finalist for three prestigious Tech Southwest Awards is a testament to everyone's innovative spirit and dedication to addressing climate-related challenges.

Our LIDAR technology and quantum innovation stand to make a significant impact on the reduction of methane emissions, and QLM's success story is a source of inspiration for businesses looking to make a positive difference in the world.

To find out more about QLM Technology, visit their website.