⚡ 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 – Project "Renaissance" (1480 Renaissance Dr, Park Ridge, IL 60068)

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 in Park Ridge, Cook County, Illinois. 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 at 1480 Renaissance Drive, a paved, public road within a well-developed commercial office park. The property has immediate proximity to major transportation corridors, including Interstate 294, which is less than a mile away. This high-quality infrastructure ensures straightforward access for construction crews, standard vehicles, and heavy-haul trucks required for equipment delivery.

Terrain Characteristics: Based on aerial imagery and the general geography of Cook County, the site is presumed to be flat with minimal grade. This is highly advantageous, as it will significantly reduce earthwork and civil engineering costs associated with site preparation and foundation construction. A formal topographic survey is required for confirmation.

Heavy Equipment Access: The existing road network is designed to accommodate commercial traffic, including delivery trucks. Therefore, access for critical BESS components such as multi-ton transformers, concrete pads, and containerized battery enclosures is anticipated to be feasible without requiring significant road improvements. Turn radii appear adequate for tractor-trailers.

Easement Concerns: As a parcel within a planned commercial development, the property is almost certain to be encumbered by existing utility, access, and drainage easements. A title report and ALTA survey are critical next steps to identify the location and nature of these easements, as they could materially impact the net buildable area and layout of the BESS facility.

2. Environmental Constraints

FEMA Flood Zone: The FEMA flood zone designation is currently listed as Unknown. This is a critical data gap. If the site is located within a 100-year floodplain (e.g., Zone A or AE), development costs will increase substantially due to the need for elevated foundations for all equipment. A designation within a floodway would likely render the site undevelopable. Verification via the FEMA Flood Map Service Center is an immediate priority.

Wetlands: The presence of jurisdictional wetlands is Unknown. While the developed nature of the surrounding area makes large, natural wetlands unlikely, man-made stormwater management features or remnant hydric soils could be present. A desktop screening using the National Wetlands Inventory (NWI) is required, followed by a formal wetland delineation if any potential features are identified. Any confirmed wetlands would trigger significant setback requirements and reduce the buildable acreage.

Critical Habitat / Endangered Species: The data indicates no critical habitat or protected areas on or immediately adjacent to the site. This significantly de-risks the project from a wildlife permitting perspective.