⚡ 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

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 reveals a site with significant financial incentive potential due to its location in an IRA Energy Community. However, this is counterbalanced by critical and currently disqualifying unknowns regarding grid infrastructure and significant regulatory hurdles. A phased, low-cost due diligence approach is recommended to address these fatal flaw risks before committing significant capital.

1. Site Access & Topography

• Road Access & Feasibility: The site has excellent access. It is located in a suburban office park directly adjacent to major arterial roads and Interstate 294. The listed access via "Public" road (Renaissance Dr) appears to be a paved, multi-lane commercial road capable of handling heavy truck traffic. Delivery of large equipment, including 40-foot battery containers, switchgear, and main power transformers, is anticipated to be highly feasible with no significant logistical hurdles. A final route survey for bridge clearances and weight limits is standard diligence but risk is low.
• Topography & Civil Work: The Chicagoland area is exceptionally flat. It is presumed the site has minimal grade, which is a significant advantage. This will drastically reduce civil engineering and earthwork costs, eliminating the need for extensive grading or retaining walls. The primary civil work will likely be limited to foundations, internal access roads, and stormwater management.
• Equipment Access: The existing road network within the office park appears sufficient for crane and delivery vehicle access. The key constraint will be the internal site layout, ensuring adequate turning radii and placement areas for construction.
• Easement Concerns: Requires Verification. As a developed commercial parcel, there is a high probability of existing utility easements (power, water, sewer, fiber) crossing the property. A title report and ALTA survey are immediately required to identify any easements that would encumber the buildable area and constrain the BESS footprint.

2. Environmental Constraints

• FEMA Flood Zone: Requires Verification. The FEMA flood zone designation is unknown and represents a critical risk. If the site is located in a Special Flood Hazard Area (e.g., Zone A, AE), project costs will increase due to the need to elevate all equipment above the Base Flood Elevation (BFE). A designation in a high-risk floodway could render the site undevelopable. This must be investigated immediately via FEMA's Map Service Center.
• Wetlands: Requires Verification. The presence of jurisdictional wetlands is unknown. A desktop screening using the National Wetlands Inventory (NWI) is the first step. Any potential presence would trigger the need for a field delineation and require significant setbacks, potentially impacting the build