⚡ BARRETT ST

MEMORANDUM

TO: Sunland America Corp. Development Committee

FROM: Senior BESS Site Evaluation Analyst

DATE: October 26, 2023

SUBJECT: Comprehensive Site Diligence Analysis for BARRETT ST, New Bedford, MA (APN: 102 0041)

This report provides a comprehensive due diligence analysis for a potential distribution-scale BESS project on a 4.88-acre parcel located on Barrett Street in New Bedford, MA. The analysis covers key evaluation criteria including site access, environmental constraints, grid infrastructure, regulatory hurdles, and financial incentives.

1. Site Access & Topography

Road Access & Equipment Delivery: The subject parcel appears to have direct frontage on Barrett Street, which is a paved, public road within an established industrial/commercial area. This suggests that standard construction vehicle and delivery truck access is likely straightforward. However, a detailed logistics study is required to confirm the route from major highways can accommodate oversized and overweight loads, such as a main power transformer (MPT) and prefabricated battery enclosures. This includes checking for low-clearance bridges, tight turning radii, and road weight restrictions.

Topography & Site Preparation: Based on aerial imagery and the general geography of New Bedford, the site is presumed to be relatively flat with minimal grade. This is advantageous, as it would likely minimize earthwork and site preparation costs. A formal topographic survey will be required to confirm this and to engineer a final site layout and drainage plan. The current land use is listed as vacant, which should simplify site clearing.

Heavy Equipment Feasibility: Access for critical heavy equipment, including a large crane for setting the transformer and battery containers, appears feasible given the road frontage and likely flat terrain. The primary constraint will be the internal site layout and ensuring sufficient stabilized ground for crane operations.

Easement Concerns: Requires Verification. While direct road frontage is a positive, a preliminary title report is essential to identify any existing utility easements, access easements, or other encumbrances that could restrict the buildable area or dictate equipment placement. We must also confirm that no new off-site easements will be required for the electrical interconnection route.

2. Environmental Constraints

FEMA Flood Zone: Requires Verification. The FEMA flood zone designation is currently unknown and represents a critical risk. Any portion of the site within a Special Flood Hazard Area (e.g., Zone AE) would necessitate elevating all critical equipment above the Base Flood Elevation (BFE), significantly increasing civil engineering and foundation costs. A location within a designated floodway would likely be a fatal flaw.

Wetlands: Requires Verification. The presence of wetlands is unknown. Given the site's location in coastal Massachusetts, there is a moderate to high risk of jurisdictional wetlands being present. A desktop screening using National Wetlands Inventory (NWI) maps is an immediate next step, to be followed by a formal wetland delineation by a certified professional. The presence of wetlands would trigger significant state and local setback requirements (typically 50-100 feet), which could severely reduce the 4.88-acre site's buildable envelope.

Critical Habitat / Endangered Species: The initial screen shows no designated critical habitat or protected areas on site, which is a significant positive. This reduces the risk of lengthy and complex consultations with the U.S.