⚡ 444 SHOEMAKER LN

MEMORANDUM

TO: Sunland America Corp. Development Committee

FROM: Senior BESS Site Evaluation Analyst

DATE: October 26, 2023

SUBJECT: Comprehensive Site Diligence Analysis for "Project Agawam"

PROPERTY: 444 SHOEMAKER LN, AGAWAM, HAMPDEN COUNTY, MA (APN: G5_5_9)

RECOMMENDATION: MAYBE

This report provides a comprehensive due diligence analysis for a potential distribution-scale (≤5MW) Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) project on a 4.7-acre parcel in Agawam, MA. The site possesses truly exceptional grid infrastructure access, which is a primary driver for consideration. However, this significant advantage is counterbalanced by a complete lack of eligibility for IRA/ITC incentive adders and critical unknowns in the environmental and regulatory profiles. The project warrants further, albeit cautious, investigation focused on de-risking key fatal flaws before significant capital is committed.

1. Site Access & Topography

The subject property exhibits favorable characteristics for construction and equipment delivery. Access is provided via Shoemaker Lane, a paved, two-lane industrial road that connects to major local arterials. This existing infrastructure appears fully capable of supporting heavy haul trucks required for delivering multi-ton transformers, switchgear, and containerized battery systems. A preliminary review of aerial imagery suggests the terrain is flat and cleared, consistent with its location in an established industrial/commercial park. This will significantly minimize civil work and grading costs, which can be a major budget item on more challenging sites. Heavy equipment access appears straightforward. However, a formal route survey from the nearest highway is recommended during detailed engineering to confirm turning radii and the absence of any weight-limited bridges or overhead line clearance issues. A title search is required to identify any potential access or utility easements that may encumber the property and reduce the buildable area.

2. Environmental Constraints

The environmental profile presents the most significant near-term risks. Key data is currently unknown and requires immediate investigation.

• FEMA Flood Zone: Requires Verification. The FEMA flood designation is unknown. If the site is located within a 100-year floodplain (e.g., Zone AE), it could necessitate costly mitigation, such as elevating all equipment pads and control houses above the Base Flood Elevation, or could render the site financially unviable. This is a critical go/no-go diligence item