⚡ 127 OAK HILL AVE

MEMORANDUM

TO: Sunland America Corp. Investment Committee

FROM: Senior BESS Site Evaluation Analyst

DATE: October 26, 2023

SUBJECT: Comprehensive Site Diligence Analysis for 127 Oak Hill Ave, Seekonk, MA (APN: 265/034.0-0000-0314.0)

This report provides a comprehensive due diligence analysis for a potential distribution-scale (≤5MW) Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) project at 127 Oak Hill Ave in Seekonk, Massachusetts. The analysis evaluates the site's suitability based on key development criteria, identifies significant risks, and recommends a clear path forward.

1. Site Access & Topography

Road Access & Feasibility: The property has direct frontage on Oak Hill Avenue, a paved, two-lane commercial thoroughfare. Based on aerial and street-level imagery, access appears excellent for both construction vehicles and large-load equipment deliveries. The road seems capable of handling heavy truck traffic.

Terrain Characteristics: The topography in this region of Bristol County is generally flat to gently rolling. The 2.09-acre parcel appears to be level and cleared, which is highly advantageous for minimizing civil engineering costs and construction complexity. A formal topographic survey is required for detailed design, but no significant grading challenges are anticipated.

Heavy Equipment Access: Given the direct road frontage and apparently flat terrain, the delivery and placement of heavy equipment such as multi-ton transformers, switchgear, and containerized battery enclosures are expected to be feasible. A detailed logistics plan should verify turning radii from Oak Hill Ave onto the site and check for any overhead utility line conflicts along the delivery route and at the site entrance.

Easement Concerns: Requires Verification. A full title commitment must be obtained to identify any existing utility, access, or drainage easements that may encumber the property. Such easements could significantly constrain the final buildable envelope for the BESS facility.

2. Environmental Constraints

FEMA Flood Zone: Requires Verification. The FEMA flood zone designation is currently unknown and represents a critical risk. A review of FEMA's Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) is an immediate priority. If the site is located within a Special Flood Hazard Area (e.g., Zone A, AE), development could be prohibited or require costly mitigation measures, such as elevating all equipment above the Base Flood Elevation, potentially rendering the project economically unviable.

Wetlands: Requires Verification. The presence of state or federally protected wetlands is unknown. Massachusetts has stringent wetland protection regulations (Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act) with significant buffer zone requirements (typically 100 feet). Given the parcel's modest size of 2.09 acres, the presence of even small wetland features could severely limit or eliminate the buildable area. A desktop screening using MassGIS and National Wetlands Inventory data is the first step, likely to be followed by a formal field delineation by a certified wetlands scientist.

Critical Habitat