Planning commission recommends preliminary plat for CenterPoint Energy’s Mankato green hydrogen and solar project; one commissioner dissenting

Ian Pregnitz, city planning staff, presented a preliminary plat application from CenterPoint Energy for the CNP Mankato First Edition, a one‑lot, one‑block subdivision at 2400 North Riverfront Drive. Pregnitz said the concept plan shows a two‑phase project including a solar farm and a green hydrogen production and storage facility; because the property was never platted, the applicant must bring the parcel into conformance with city subdivision regulations. Staff recommended approval with conditions including payment in lieu of parkland ($45,972), inclusion of private easements on the amended preliminary plat, sanitary and water connection charges, and that the applicant include amended materials for review at final plat submission.

Mike Fogarty, CenterPoint Energy’s project manager, addressed the commission and described the project as an investment in clean energy and said the company looks forward to working with neighbors and staff as the submittal is reviewed. “We’re excited about the prospect of advancing clean energy futures here in Mankato and continuing to make meaningful investment on behalf of both our customers and community members,” Fogarty said.

After discussion, a motion to recommend approval passed; the roll call recorded one “No” vote from a commissioner and the motion was otherwise supported. The commission recommended forwarding the item to city council; staff noted a payment in lieu of parkland must be submitted prior to final plat signature.