TO: Sunland America Corp. Development Committee
FROM: Senior BESS Site Evaluation Analyst
DATE: October 26, 2023
SUBJECT: Comprehensive Site Diligence Analysis for "Project O'Hare" (1480 Renaissance Dr, Park Ridge, IL 60068)
This report provides a comprehensive due diligence analysis for a potential distribution-scale Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) project at the subject property in Park Ridge, Cook County, Illinois. The analysis identifies significant opportunities, primarily related to financial incentives and physical site characteristics, but also flags critical risks concerning grid interconnection and regulatory approval that must be addressed before committing significant capital.
Road Access & Feasibility: The property has excellent access. It is located in a modern commercial office park and fronts Renaissance Drive, a paved public road. This location, proximate to major transportation corridors like I-294, ensures straightforward access for all phases of construction and operation.
Terrain & Equipment Access: The topography in this region of Illinois is exceptionally flat. We anticipate minimal grading will be required, significantly reducing site preparation costs. The existing road infrastructure was designed to support the construction of multi-story office buildings and can therefore readily accommodate the delivery of heavy equipment, including mobile cranes, BESS containers (e.g., Tesla Megapacks or similar), and main power transformers. A final route survey is recommended to check for any temporary weight or clearance restrictions prior to equipment mobilization.
Easement Concerns: As a developed commercial parcel, there is a high likelihood of existing underground and overhead utility easements (power, water, sewer, fiber) crossing the property. A preliminary title report and an ALTA survey are critical next steps to identify any easements that could constrain the BESS footprint and define the ultimate buildable area. Access easements are not a concern due to the public road frontage.