TO: Sunland America Corp. Development Committee
FROM: Senior BESS Site Evaluation Analyst
DATE: October 26, 2023
SUBJECT: Comprehensive Site Diligence Analysis for "Project Renaissance"
PROPERTY: 1480 RENAISSANCE DR, PARK RIDGE, COOK COUNTY, IL (APN: 09-22-110-005-0000)
This report provides a comprehensive due diligence analysis for the subject property for the potential development of a distribution-scale (≤5MW) Battery Energy Storage System (BESS). The analysis identifies significant potential in the form of federal incentives but is balanced by critical unknowns regarding grid access and regulatory approval that must be resolved before significant capital is committed.
Road Access & Equipment Delivery: The site benefits from excellent access. It is located in a modern commercial office park with direct access to Renaissance Drive, a paved public road. Proximity to major highways (I-294) suggests that the local road network is robust and designed to handle heavy commercial traffic. Delivery of large, heavy equipment, including battery containers, medium-voltage transformers, and construction cranes, is anticipated to be straightforward without the need for significant road improvements. A final route survey is recommended to confirm the absence of low-clearance bridges or weight-restricted roads on the immediate approach.
Terrain & Buildability: Based on its location in suburban Cook County, the site's topography is presumed to be flat with minimal grade, which is ideal for BESS construction as it minimizes civil engineering and earthwork costs. The primary parcel is listed as 2.97 acres (per Regrid data), which is sufficient for a 5MW BESS facility, including necessary balance-of-plant and access roads. Note: A discrepancy exists with a "Total Acres" figure of 35.02; this may refer to a larger parent tract and requires clarification via a title search and ALTA survey.
Easement Concerns: As part of a planned commercial development, the parcel is highly likely to be encumbered by existing utility, access, or drainage easements. A full title commitment and ALTA survey are required to identify any such encumbrances, as they could materially impact the usable buildable area and dictate the final site layout.
FEMA Flood Zone & Wetlands: The FEMA flood zone status and presence of wetlands are both marked as Unknown. These represent critical-path, potentially fatal flaws. A desktop screening using FEMA's Map Service Center and the National Wetlands Inventory (NWI) must be conducted immediately. If the site falls within a Special Flood Hazard Area