Billionaire Hedge Fund Manager Faces Opposition on Solar Farm Plan for Stately Home

A wealthy hedge fund executive is facing criticism from locals following the submission of proposals to construct a solar farm aimed at supplying energy for his massive 100-bedroom mansion.

Chris Rokos is applying for approval to convert North Park close to Marlborough, located in Wiltshire, into a site covering 40 acres dedicated to renewable energy panels as part of his initiative to ‘reduce carbon footprint’ at Tottenham House.

He aims to develop a 'self-sustaining source of energy and water to ensure its ongoing functionality'.

However, upset residents have expressed their worries regarding the possible 'reduction in water pressure' in the region.

With strong objections expressed, the Great Bedwyn Parish Council stated: "We oppose the present proposal due to our worries about installing the new water mains connection as well as constructing a drainage lagoon and soakaway."

We request that Wiltshire Council obtain assurances from Thames Water that the deployment of the new pipelines will not adversely affect the residents within our parish concerning reduced water pressure or inadequate water supply.

The application submitted by Esturmy Construction Limited indicates that planning approval is necessary for an intended photovoltaic system (PV array), a drainage pond, and a water main link to North Park.

The North Park, situated in the northern section of the historically listed park and garden established during the 18th century, is now utilized for dairy farming and silage production.

A planning document suggested 'installing a ground-mounted photovoltaic array with an approximate capacity of 688 kWp to decrease the CO2 emissions produced by the property.'

This was stated to 'aid in the decarbonization of Tottenham House' and fulfill approximately 28 percent of the property's upcoming electrical needs.

The council is anticipated to deliver its decision on the proposal later during the summertime.

Mr Rokos caused outrage back in 2014 when he purchased a 19th-century structure in South Kensington and received approval to transform it into both a modern gym and an additional space for parking vehicles.

A neighbor commented, "You can't seriously anticipate such developments occurring on a tiny mews street."

A local resident commented, "He has become quite disliked around here since he plans to use it solely as a back entrance, causing us unnecessary disruptions."

In 2022, he caused quite a stir by advertising for an 'iPad Butler' to assist his household in managing their Apple devices such as iPhones, tablets, and various other gadgets.

Applicants were informed that they needed to possess a thorough knowledge of Apple devices and services such as 'Apple TV, HomePod, iPad, iPhone, Family Sharing, iTunes, and Photos.'

The job posting mentioned that candidates should have strong 'communication and interpersonal abilities,' along with the capacity to 'articulate technical ideas' in an 'easy-to-understand and succinct' manner.

Mr. Rokos serves as both the founder and chief investment officer at Rokos Capital Management (RCM). During his tenure, the firm has expanded into a $16 billion global macro hedge fund.

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