⚡ 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 key opportunities, constraints, risks, and recommended next steps to determine project viability.

1. Site Access & Topography

Road Access & Feasibility: The property is located in a well-developed commercial office park with direct access from Renaissance Drive, a public road. Based on aerial imagery, the site is immediately adjacent to Interstate 294, suggesting excellent regional access via major arterial roads. The existing road network appears to be paved and well-maintained, which is highly favorable for the delivery of heavy and oversized BESS equipment, including battery containers, power conversion systems (PCS), and medium-voltage transformers.

Terrain Characteristics: The topography in Park Ridge and the greater Chicago area is exceptionally flat. We can assume near-zero grade across the parcel, which significantly reduces earthwork and civil engineering costs. This simplifies foundation design and site preparation, accelerating the construction timeline.

Heavy Equipment Access: Access for cranes, flatbed trucks, and other necessary construction machinery appears to be straightforward. However, a detailed logistics plan must verify turning radii within the office park and confirm that local roads do not have prohibitive weight restrictions. The existing curb cuts and entrance points seem adequate for commercial traffic.

Easement Concerns: As a developed commercial parcel, it is almost certain that multiple utility and access easements encumber the property. A title commitment and a current ALTA survey are immediately required to identify the location and nature of any easements for power, water, sewer, and telecommunications, as these could constrain the final BESS layout and reduce the buildable area.

2. Environmental Constraints

FEMA Flood Zone: The FEMA flood zone designation is currently Unknown. This represents a critical and potentially fatal flaw risk. An immediate review of FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) is required. If the site is located within a Special Flood Hazard Area (e.g., Zone A, AE), development costs will increase substantially due to the need for elevated foundations, or the site may be rendered undevelopable.

Wetlands: The presence of wetlands is also Unknown. A desktop review using the National Wetlands Inventory (NWI) database is the first step. Any indication of potential wetlands will trigger the need for a formal wetland delineation by a qualified consultant. The presence of jurisdictional wetlands would necessitate significant setbacks (typically 50-100 feet), which could severely limit the project footprint on the 2.97-acre parcel.

Critical Habitat / Endangered Species: The data indicates no critical habitat or protected areas on or immediately adjacent to the site. Given the highly developed, urbanized nature of the location, the risk of encountering endangered species is considered very low. This should be confirmed during a Phase I Environmental Site Assessment (ESA).

Brownfield/Superfund Status: While there is a Superfund site within two miles, the subject property itself is not listed. However, its history as a commercial site could present an opportunity. A Phase I ESA is necessary to determine if any Recognized Environmental Conditions (RECs) exist. If a REC is identified, the site could potentially qualify as a "brownfield site" under CERCLA § 101(39), making the project eligible for the 10% Brownfield ITC adder. This is a significant potential financial upside.

Pipeline Proximity: The absence of major gas pipelines within