⚡ 1480 RENAISSANCE DR

MEMORANDUM

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: 09221100050000)

Recommendation: MAYBE (Proceed with extreme caution and limited initial capital outlay)

This report provides a comprehensive due diligence analysis for the potential acquisition and development of a distribution-scale Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) at the subject property. The analysis identifies significant challenges, primarily related to grid interconnection costs and zoning entitlement risk, which are partially offset by a valuable federal tax incentive. Proceeding will require aggressive de-risking of these key items before significant capital is committed.

1. Site Access & Topography

• Road Access & Feasibility: The site has excellent access. It is located on Renaissance Drive, a multi-lane, paved public road within a commercial office park. The property is situated less than one mile from major arterial roads (W Touhy Ave) and Interstate 294. This provides a clear and robust transportation route for all phases of construction and operation.
• Terrain Characteristics: The property is in Park Ridge, IL, an area known for its flat topography. Satellite imagery confirms the site is level and appears to be graded as part of the existing office park development. This is highly favorable, as it will minimize civil engineering costs associated with site grading and foundation work.
• Heavy Equipment Access: The existing road network is designed for commercial traffic, including semi-trailers. Access for heavy equipment such as cranes, transformers, and containerized BESS units is anticipated to be straightforward with no major obstructions like low-clearance bridges or tight turning radii noted on primary access routes.
• Easement Concerns: While direct road access is not a concern, the parcel is situated within a developed area. It is highly probable that existing utility easements (power, water, sewer, communications) cross the property. A full ALTA survey and title report are required to identify any easements that could conflict with the proposed BESS equipment layout and restrict the buildable area.

2. Environmental Constraints

• FEMA Flood Zone: The FEMA flood zone designation is currently Unknown. This is a critical data gap. While the site appears developed and elevated, its proximity to the Des Plaines River (approximately 2.5 miles west) necessitates immediate verification via the FEMA Flood Map Service Center. An unfavorable designation (e.g., Zone AE) could impose significant design constraints, increase costs, or render the site undevelopable.
• Wetlands: The presence of jurisdictional wetlands is Unknown. A desktop review using the National Wetlands Inventory (NWI) is the first step. Given the developed nature of the site, the risk may be low, but a formal wetland delineation may be required by the AHJ or Army Corps of Engineers, which could impact site layout and require mitigation.
• Critical Habitat / Species Risk: The provided data indicates no critical habitats or protected areas on or immediately adjacent to the site. This is a low-risk item.
• Brownfield/Superfund Status: The data notes one Superfund/Brownfield site within two miles. This does not mean the subject parcel is contaminated, but it raises the possibility. A Phase I Environmental Site Assessment (