⚡ 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" (1480 Renaissance Dr, Park Ridge, IL)

This report provides a comprehensive due diligence analysis for the potential BESS project located at 1480 Renaissance Dr, Park Ridge, Cook County, IL (APN: 09221100050000). The analysis evaluates the site's suitability for a distribution-scale (≤5MW) BESS project based on key development criteria. A significant number of critical data points are currently unknown, presenting substantial risks that must be addressed before committing further capital.

1. Site Access & Topography

Road Access & Equipment Delivery: The site has excellent access via Renaissance Drive, a paved public road within a well-maintained office park. Its proximity to major highways (I-294) is a significant logistical advantage. The existing road network appears robust and wide enough to accommodate the delivery of heavy equipment, including semi-trucks carrying 40-foot battery containers, switchgear, and large power transformers. A formal route survey is recommended prior to any equipment mobilization, but initial assessment is highly positive.

Topography: The property is located in the greater Chicago metropolitan area, a region known for its flat terrain. It is presumed that the site is flat or has a very gentle grade, which is ideal for BESS development. This would minimize civil engineering costs associated with site grading and foundation work. Requires verification with a topographical survey.

Access Easements: Given the public road frontage, a dedicated access easement is likely not required. However, the property is situated in a developed commercial area, and it is highly probable that existing utility easements (power, water, communications) cross the parcel. A title report and ALTA survey are critical to identify any easements that could conflict with the proposed BESS equipment layout and restrict the buildable area.

2. Environmental Constraints

FEMA Flood Zone: The FEMA flood zone designation is listed as "Unknown." This represents a critical information gap and a potential fatal flaw. If the site is located within a Special Flood Hazard Area (e.g., Zone A or AE), development costs could increase substantially due to the need for elevated foundations, or the site could be rendered undevelopable. Immediate review of FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) is a top priority.

Wetlands: The presence of wetlands is "Unknown." Similar to flood risk, the existence of jurisdictional wetlands could severely limit the buildable acreage due to required setbacks and mitigation costs. A desktop screening using the National Wetlands Inventory (NWI) database is required, likely followed by a formal wetland delineation if the screening indicates potential risk.

Habitat & Protected Species: The data indicates