Massive Fire Overnight at Orrington Energy Plant

Crews from many communities joined Orrington firefighters Tuesday night for a huge fire at the Eagle Point Energy Center.

Flames Shot Through the Roof of Orrington Energy Plant

Fires are not unusual at the former Penobscot Energy Recovery Co (PERC) plant since the facility deals with large amounts of trash. But this fire, reported just before 10:30 Tuesday night, was a different story. When crews arrived at the plant off River Road, they found the entire tipping floor area on fire with flames shooting through the roof of the 200 x 400 steel building.

Orrington Officials Say the Fire Will Burn for Several Days

As of early this morning, fire crews could not get inside to suppress the fire because of the instability of the building. They will also need to remove the nearly 40-foot-high pile of decomposing trash. For now, officials say the fire is contained but still burning, and likely will be for several days. Crews will remain on the scene and monitor the situation.

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Residents on Both Sides of the River Advised to Take Precautions Against the Smoke

According to Orrington Fire-Rescue, residents of Orrington and Hampden are strongly advised to keep their windows closed, as much as possible, due to significant smoke.The Environmental Protection Agency is working with Eagle Point Energy Center, the Town of Orrington, Penobscot County EMA, MEMA, and others to assist with the environmental impact of the ongoing fire.

We'll update this story as more details become available.