⚡ 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 1480 Renaissance Dr, Park Ridge, 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 in Park Ridge, Cook County, Illinois. The analysis identifies significant risks, particularly concerning grid interconnection and zoning, that must be resolved before committing further capital.

1. Site Access & Topography

• Road Access & Equipment Delivery: The site has direct frontage on Renaissance Drive, a public road within a suburban office park. Based on satellite imagery, this road appears to be a modern, well-maintained, multi-lane asphalt road capable of supporting heavy truck traffic. Access to major transportation corridors, including Interstate 294, is excellent, facilitating the delivery of heavy equipment.
• Terrain Characteristics: As is typical for the Chicagoland area, the site appears to be exceptionally flat with minimal grade change. This is highly advantageous, as it will significantly reduce civil engineering and site preparation costs. Extensive grading or earthwork is not anticipated.
• Heavy Equipment Feasibility: Access for tractor-trailers delivering battery containers, inverters, and a main power transformer appears feasible. The road network within the office park seems to lack sharp turns, low-clearance overpasses, or weight-restricted bridges that would impede delivery.
• Easement Concerns: While frontage is public, a full title report is required to identify any utility easements (UEs), access easements, or other encumbrances that could cross the parcel and limit the placement of BESS equipment. The current use as an office building suggests existing utility infrastructure and associated easements are present. This requires verification. There is also a significant discrepancy in the provided acreage (35.02 vs. 2.97 acres from Regrid). This must be clarified immediately via a survey and title review, as 2.97 acres could be restrictive for a 5MW project with setbacks.

2. Environmental Constraints

• FEMA Flood Zone: The FEMA flood zone designation is listed as "Unknown." This is a critical data gap. Development within a Special Flood Hazard Area (e.g., Zone A, AE) would trigger significant design constraints, potentially requiring all equipment to be elevated above the Base Flood Elevation, adding substantial cost. A FEMA FIRMette map must be reviewed immediately to assess this risk.
• Wetlands Presence: The presence of wetlands is "Unknown." This represents another potential fatal flaw. A desktop screening using the National Wetlands Inventory (NWI) is a necessary first step. If potential wetlands are identified, a formal wetland delineation would be required. The presence of jurisdictional wetlands would trigger setback requirements (typically 5