⚡ 665 WAREHAM ST

MEMORANDUM

TO: Sunland America Corp. Development Committee

FROM: Senior BESS Site Evaluation Analyst

DATE: October 26, 2023

SUBJECT: Comprehensive Site Diligence Analysis for 665 WAREHAM ST, Middleborough, MA

This report provides a comprehensive due diligence analysis for the property located at 665 Wareham Street (APN: 110-2588) in Middleborough, Plymouth County, Massachusetts, for its potential as a distribution-scale (≤5MW) or utility-scale Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) project.

1. Site Access & Topography

The subject property has extensive frontage along Wareham Street (MA Route 28), a major two-lane state highway. This provides excellent public road access for both construction and operational phases. Preliminary review of aerial imagery indicates the terrain is relatively flat and heavily wooded, which is typical for the region. The flat topography is advantageous, minimizing the need for extensive civil work and grading, thereby reducing site preparation costs.

Feasibility for heavy equipment delivery appears high. Standard semi-trucks delivering battery containers, inverters, and switchgear should have no issue accessing the site directly from Route 28. The delivery of the main power transformer, which is the heaviest and largest piece of equipment, will require a detailed logistics plan, but the direct access from a state highway is a significant advantage. There is a notable discrepancy in the provided data regarding parcel size (2.01 acres vs. 45.55 acres). If the parcel is the larger 45.55-acre lot, there is ample space to create a dedicated, wide-mouthed construction entrance. If it is only 2.01 acres, the layout will be much tighter. No immediate access easement concerns are apparent given the direct road frontage, but a formal survey will be required to confirm property lines and rule out any unforeseen encumbrances.

2. Environmental Constraints

Environmental risks for this site are currently high due to several critical unknowns.

• FEMA Flood Zone: The flood zone designation is unknown. A preliminary desktop review using the FEMA Flood Map Service Center suggests the majority of the parcel is likely in Zone X (minimal risk), but proximity to the Nemasket River corridor to the west necessitates a formal Flood Hazard Determination. Any portion of the site within a Special Flood Hazard Area (e.g., Zone AE) would be undevelopable or require costly mitigation like elevating all equipment, severely impacting project economics.
• Wetlands: The presence of wetlands is unknown. Given the wooded nature of the site and its location in Massachusetts, it is highly probable that state and federally jurisdictional wetlands are present. The Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act imposes a 100-foot buffer zone around delineated wetlands, which could significantly reduce the buildable acreage. A formal wetlands delineation by a certified professional is a critical and immediate next step.
• Critical Habitat / Species: The provided data indicates no critical habitat or protected areas on site, which is a positive initial finding