He stated, 'in substance' [='in essence', 'essentially'], that it is not his fault and he will not pay for damages.
These rumors have no 'substance'. = These rumors are 'without substance'. [=these rumors are not true]
Codeine is a 'controlled substance'. [=a drug that you need permission from a doctor to use]
(..) ...and the light with the most power. But they sought their answer in the light of will... ...to form from it a weapon unequalled... ...to turn armies to sand. Will, given substance... ...forming. The greatest warriors of the universe were gathered. Four would be chosen. The first four. (..)2011 Green Lantern: Emerald Knights