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 key site attributes, critical risks, and actionable next steps to determine project viability.
Road Access & Equipment Delivery: The site exhibits excellent road access. It is located in a modern office park directly adjacent to major arterial roads (S. Cumberland Ave) and the I-294 Tollway. The property has frontage on Renaissance Drive, a paved, public road that appears to be of sufficient width and quality to handle heavy truck traffic. Delivery of large components, including battery containers, medium-voltage transformers, and switchgear, is anticipated to be feasible without major logistical hurdles. A final route survey is recommended to verify bridge heights and any local weight restrictions, but this is considered a low-risk item.
Topography & Site Preparation: The property is located in the greater Chicago metropolitan area, a region known for its exceptionally flat terrain. It is presumed the site is flat to gently sloping, which is ideal for BESS development as it will significantly minimize earthwork and grading costs. The existing land use as a commercial office building suggests the site is already graded and likely stable.
Easement Concerns: As a developed commercial parcel, there is a high probability of existing utility easements for electricity, water, sewer, and telecommunications crossing the property. A title report and ALTA survey are required to identify the location and nature of these easements, as they could materially constrain the buildable envelope for the BESS compound.
FEMA Flood Zone: The FEMA flood zone designation is currently Unknown. This represents a critical data gap. Any portion of the site located within a 100-year floodplain (e.g., Zone A or AE) would introduce significant design challenges, increased costs for elevating equipment, or could be a fatal flaw rendering the site undevelopable. Immediate verification using FEMA's Map Service Center is a top priority.