'Extraordinary act of generosity' as Warwick Uni receives £10m donation
The gift is helping the University of Warwick research cleaner energy systems
A ten million pound gift is helping the University of Warwick research cleaner energy systems.
The money from former student, Tim Hartnoll, will set up a new research centre - which the Uni says will bring together top experts to create new kinds of sustainable batteries and fuel technology.
It's one of the largest gifts in Warwick’s 60-year history.
The institution say the Hartnoll Centre for Experimental Fuel Technologies will unite world-leading experts in chemistry, materials science, physics, and engineering to overcome one of the greatest challenges of our time: developing sustainable ways to create and store energy for a cleaner, more resilient future.
'Extraordinary act of generosity'
Professor Stuart Croft, Vice-Chancellor and President, University of Warwick, said: “This extraordinary act of generosity represents a defining moment for Warwick and for the future of sustainable energy. The Hartnoll Centre will develop new experimental fuel technologies that are cleaner, more efficient, and more accessible. These breakthroughs will power industries, communities, and countries into a brighter, more sustainable future.
“We are deeply grateful for this remarkable philanthropic gift. It demonstrates how philanthropy empowers leading universities like Warwick to find transformative solutions to global challenges facing all of us, and to do so with ambition”.
'Warwick has played an important role in my life'
Tim Hartnoll, was presented with the University’s Benefactor’s Medal in July 2025, recognising the transformative impact of his support.
Tim Hartnoll, Executive Chairman of X-Press Feeders said: “Since 1976, Warwick has played an important role in my life, shaping how I think and how I approach the world. I’ve always believed universities like Warwick are at their best when they bring people together to solve global challenges, and supporting research that drives innovation in sustainable energy feels both urgent and necessary.
“Funding the new Hartnoll Centre for Experimental Fuel Technologies is an important continuation of my philanthropy to the University, and I’m proud to give back to an institution that continues to push boundaries and prepare the next generation to lead with purpose.”
Over the years, Tim has funded 13 postdoctoral research positions and 12 PhD scholarships within Warwick’s Astronomy and Astrophysics Group in the Department of Physics, one of the biggest gifts ever to Astronomy research in the UK.
Professor Patrick Unwin FRS, Director of the Hartnoll Centre for Experimental Fuel Technologies, University of Warwick, said: “Energy innovation is one of the most pressing challenges for the world, given the need to urgently address climate change and increased energy demand. It requires the freedom to explore, the courage to take risks, and the collaboration of the brightest minds across multiple fields.
“The Hartnoll Centre will combine scientific excellence with the entrepreneurial spirit that defines Warwick. Thanks to Tim’s philanthropic support, we’ll attract and fund a pipeline of global talent that will transform our understanding of clean energy systems and set a new direction for next generation energy technologies.”