⚡ 1127 GLENDALE RD

TO: Sunland America Corp. Investment Committee

FROM: Senior BESS Site Evaluation Analyst

DATE: October 26, 2023

SUBJECT: Comprehensive Site Diligence Analysis for 1127 Glendale Rd, Wilbraham, MA (APN: 339 475_0_405_1997)

This report provides a comprehensive due diligence analysis for the subject property for its potential as a distribution-scale Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) project. The analysis covers key evaluation criteria including site access, environmental constraints, grid infrastructure, regulatory hurdles, and financial incentives.

1. Site Access & Topography

Road Access & Feasibility: The property has direct frontage on Glendale Road, which appears to be a two-lane, paved, public road. Based on aerial imagery analysis, the road seems adequate for standard construction traffic. However, a detailed route survey would be required to confirm its suitability for oversized and overweight loads, such as a main power transformer (MPT) and prefabricated battery enclosures delivered via low-boy trailers. Key considerations include turning radii from main thoroughfares, bridge weight limits, and overhead line clearances along the transport route.

Terrain & Equipment Access: The parcel appears relatively flat with some tree cover, which is typical for this region of Hampden County. The gentle topography is advantageous, likely minimizing the need for extensive civil work and grading, thereby reducing site preparation costs. An existing access point or curb cut is not immediately apparent from aerial views, so a new engineered site entrance would likely be required, subject to approval from the Wilbraham Department of Public Works. The 5.5 to 8.3-acre parcel size provides sufficient laydown area and maneuvering room for cranes and other heavy equipment needed for installation.

Easement Concerns: Requires Verification. A preliminary title report is necessary to identify any existing access, utility, or conservation easements that could encumber the property and restrict the developable area. Given the direct road frontage, a dedicated access easement is unlikely to be required unless the optimal entry point crosses a neighboring parcel.

2. Environmental Constraints

FEMA Flood Zone: Requires Verification. The FEMA flood zone designation is currently unknown and represents a critical data gap. Development of critical infrastructure like a BESS is generally prohibited within 100-year floodplains (e.g., Zone A, Zone AE) or requires substantial, cost-prohibitive mitigation measures like elevating all equipment above the Base Flood Elevation. This must be confirmed immediately via the FEMA Map Service Center as it could be a fatal flaw.

Wetlands: Requires Verification. The presence of state or federally protected wetlands is unknown. Massachusetts has stringent wetland protection regulations (Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act) which include 100-foot buffer zones where activity is heavily restricted. A desktop screening using MassGIS OLIVER should be conducted, followed by a formal wetland delineation by a certified professional if the site progresses. The presence of significant wetlands could severely limit the buildable acreage.

Habitat & Species Risk: The initial screening indicates no critical habitats or protected areas on or immediately adjacent to the site. This is a positive finding, reducing the risk of project delays or mitigation requirements from state (MA NHESP) or federal (USFWS) agencies.

Brownfield/Superfund Status: The site is not located near any known brownfield or superfund sites. While this means the project is ineligible for the 10% IRA brownfield tax credit adder, it is a net positive. A clean site history significantly de-risks the project by avoiding potential soil or groundwater contamination issues, associated cleanup liabilities, and construction complexities.

Pipeline Proximity: The absence of major gas transmission pipelines within a 3-mile radius is a significant safety advantage. This eliminates risks associated with blast zones and proximity-based siting restrictions, simplifying the site layout and permitting process.

3. Grid Infrastructure & Interconnection

Substation & Utility: The nearest substation is the WILBRAHAM substation, located approximately 1.9 miles from the parcel. This distance is manageable but suggests a significant cost for the line extension (gen-tie). The utility is likely National Grid, which serves the Wilbraham area. A critical data gap is the substation's primary distribution voltage