⚡ 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 development of a distribution-scale (≤5MW) Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) at the subject property. The analysis identifies significant financial incentives but flags critical uncertainties regarding grid interconnection and regulatory approval that must be resolved before committing further capital.

1. Site Access & Topography

Overall Assessment: Excellent. The site exhibits ideal physical characteristics for BESS development.

• Road Access: The property has direct frontage on Renaissance Drive, a multi-lane, paved public road within a commercial office park. Access from major transportation corridors is superb, with the site located immediately adjacent to Interstate 294. This ensures straightforward access for all phases of construction and operation.
• Equipment Delivery: The existing road network is designed to handle commercial truck traffic. Delivery of heavy equipment, including multi-ton transformers, switchgear, and containerized battery systems, is anticipated to be feasible with minimal logistical challenges. A detailed turning radius analysis will be required prior to final design.
• Topography: Based on aerial and topographical map review, the site is exceptionally flat, which is characteristic of the region. This will significantly minimize site preparation and grading costs, which can be a major budget item on more challenging terrain.
• Easement Concerns: As a developed parcel within an office park, the site is almost certain to be encumbered by existing utility easements (e.g., power, water, sewer, communications). A full ALTA/NSPS Land Title Survey and title report are required to identify these easements, which will constrain the final site layout and define the buildable envelope. Access easements are not a concern due to public road frontage.

2. Environmental Constraints

Overall Assessment: Moderate Risk. While the site is clear of major habitat concerns, unknown flood and wetland status, coupled with potential brownfield implications, present notable risks requiring immediate investigation.

• 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), it would necessitate elevating all critical equipment above the Base Flood Elevation (BFE), adding substantial cost and complexity. A location within a designated floodway would likely render the site undevelopable. Action: Immediately pull the relevant FEMA FIRMette map.
• Wetlands: The presence of jurisdictional wetlands is Unknown. A screening of the National Wetlands Inventory (NWI)