⚡ 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 APN 09221100050000 (1480 Renaissance Dr, Park Ridge, IL)

This report provides a comprehensive due diligence analysis for the property located at 1480 Renaissance Drive in Park Ridge, Cook County, Illinois. The analysis evaluates the site's suitability for a distribution-scale (≤5MW) Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) project based on key development criteria. The site presents a compelling financial incentive through its Energy Community status but faces significant uncertainty and risk in grid interconnection and local permitting.

1. Site Access & Topography

• Road Access & Feasibility: The site benefits from Public road access via Renaissance Drive, located within a well-developed commercial office park immediately adjacent to the I-294 Tollway. The existing road infrastructure appears robust and suitable for standard construction traffic. However, a detailed logistics review is required to confirm that turning radii can accommodate oversized vehicles for delivering large transformers and battery containers.
• Topography: As is typical for the Chicago metropolitan area, the site is expected to be exceptionally flat. This is a significant advantage, as it will likely eliminate the need for extensive civil work and grading, thereby reducing site preparation costs and timelines.
• Heavy Equipment Access: Access for heavy equipment, including cranes for setting transformers and containers, appears feasible. A site visit is necessary to verify the absence of overhead utility lines or other vertical obstructions along the planned delivery route from the main thoroughfare to the project footprint.
• Easement Concerns: A significant data discrepancy exists regarding parcel size (35.02 acres vs. 2.97 acres from different data sources). Assuming the smaller 2.97-acre size is correct, the buildable area could be severely constrained by existing utility, access, or drainage easements common in established commercial parks. Action Item: A title report and ALTA survey are critical to confirm the legal parcel boundaries and identify any encumbrances that would impact the BESS layout.

2. Environmental Constraints

• FEMA Flood Zone: The FEMA flood zone designation is currently Unknown. This is a critical and potentially fatal flaw. Any designation within a 100-year floodplain (e.g., Zone A, AE) would introduce substantial design complexity, cost (raising all equipment above the Base Flood Elevation), or render the site undevelopable. Action Item: An immediate desktop review using the FEMA Map Service Center is required.
• Wetlands: The presence of jurisdictional wetlands is Unknown. Given the developed nature of the area, the risk may be low, but cannot be dismissed. A desktop screening using the National Wetlands Inventory (NWI) is the first step. If potential wetlands are identified, a formal delineation will be necessary, which could trigger significant setbacks and reduce the buildable area.
• Critical Habitat / Species: The data indicates no critical habitats or