⚡ 1480 RENAISSANCE DR

MEMORANDUM

TO: Sunland America Corp. Investment Committee
FROM: Senior BESS Site Evaluation Analyst
DATE: October 26, 2023
SUBJECT: Comprehensive Site Diligence Analysis for "Project Ridge"
PROPERTY: 1480 RENAISSANCE DR, PARK RIDGE, COOK COUNTY, IL (APN: 09221100050000)

This report provides a comprehensive due diligence analysis for the potential acquisition and development of a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) at the subject property. The analysis covers key evaluation criteria including site access, environmental constraints, grid infrastructure, regulatory hurdles, and financial incentives under the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA).

1. Site Access & Topography

Road Access & Feasibility: The site benefits from excellent access. It is located in a modern commercial office park with direct frontage on Renaissance Drive, a paved, public road. The property is situated less than a mile from Interstate 294, providing a direct and efficient route for equipment delivery from major transportation corridors. The quality of the surrounding road network is high and appears fully capable of supporting heavy haul trucks required for transformers, switchgear, and containerized battery systems.

Terrain & Equipment Access: Based on aerial imagery and regional geographic data, the site topography is presumed to be flat to gently sloping, which is characteristic of the greater Chicago area. This is highly advantageous, as it will minimize civil engineering and grading costs. The existing road infrastructure within the office park appears to have sufficient width and turning radii to accommodate delivery of all major BESS equipment. Requires Verification: A site visit is necessary to confirm the absence of any low-hanging overhead utility lines or other subtle obstructions on the final approach to the parcel.

Easement Concerns: As a developed commercial parcel, there is a high probability of existing utility, access, or drainage easements encumbering the property. A full ALTA survey and title commitment are required to identify the location and scope of any such easements, which could materially impact the final buildable area and array layout.

2. Environmental Constraints

FEMA Flood Zone: The FEMA flood zone designation is currently Unknown. This represents a critical and potentially fatal flaw risk. A top-priority action is to review the effective FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM). If any portion of the buildable area falls within a 100-year floodplain (e.g., Zone A or AE), the site would likely become financially unviable due to the extensive civil work and elevation requirements for critical