⚡ 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)

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 key site attributes, risks, and recommended next steps to determine project viability.

1. Site Access & Topography

Road Access & Feasibility: The site benefits from excellent public road access. It is located in a well-developed commercial office park directly off Renaissance Drive, a multi-lane, paved road. This road connects to major thoroughfares and is less than a mile from Interstate 294, providing a direct and high-quality route for equipment delivery.

Terrain Characteristics: As is typical for the Chicago metropolitan area, the site and surrounding topography are exceptionally flat. This is a significant advantage, as it will minimize civil engineering costs associated with grading and site preparation. No significant topographical challenges are anticipated.

Heavy Equipment Access: The existing high-quality road infrastructure and flat terrain are well-suited for the delivery of heavy equipment, including large semi-trucks carrying battery containers, pad-mount transformers, and switchgear. A detailed route survey will be required to confirm the absence of any low-clearance bridges or road weight restrictions between the interstate and the site, but access is presumed to be straightforward.

Easement Concerns: As a developed commercial parcel, the property is likely encumbered by existing utility easements (power, water, sewer, communications). A title commitment and ALTA survey are required to identify the location and scope of these easements, as they will directly impact the final buildable area. Access to the public right-of-way appears secure and is not a primary concern.

2. Environmental Constraints

FEMA Flood Zone: The FEMA flood zone designation is currently Unknown. This is a critical data gap. If the site is located within a 100-year floodplain (e.g., Zone AE), development costs could increase substantially due to the need for elevated foundations for all equipment, or the site could be rendered undevelopable. Action: A FEMA FIRMette must be pulled immediately to verify the flood risk.

Wetlands: The presence of jurisdictional wetlands is Unknown. The presence of wetlands would trigger significant setback requirements (typically 50-100 feet) and a lengthy, expensive permitting process through the Army Corps of Engineers. Action: A desktop screening using the National Wetlands Inventory (NWI) is an immediate next step, to be followed by a formal wetlands delineation if the screening indicates a potential presence.

Critical Habitat / Endangered Species: The data indicates no critical habitats or protected areas on or near the site. This is a positive finding that significantly de-risks the environmental permitting pathway.

Brownfield/Superfund Status: While there is a Superfund site within two miles, the subject parcel itself is not listed. This proximity does not automatically qualify the site for the IRA brownfield bonus. To qualify for the 10% ITC adder, the project site itself must meet the definition of a brownfield under 42 U.S.C. § 9601(39). Advantage/Action: A Phase I Environmental Site Assessment (ESA) is required to investigate the site's historical use. If contamination or prior industrial use is identified, it could unlock this valuable 10% tax credit adder, turning a potential liability into a financial advantage.

Pipeline Proximity: The site has no major gas or hazardous liquid pipelines within a three-mile radius. This is a significant safety and layout advantage, eliminating concerns related to pipeline setbacks and explosion risk.

3. Grid Infrastructure & Interconnection