Orrington’s PERC Trash Recycling Power Plant is Up for Auction

The PERC plant in Orrington is looking for new owners as it gets ready to go on the auction block in July.

What is the PERC Plant?

Located off Route 15, also known as the River Road in Orrington, the Penobscot Energy Recovery Company is a fully operational power plant and trash processing facility. And now, it's for sale. The foreclosure auction, which includes 12 buildings, is listed on the Keenan Auctions website. A long list of equipment will transfer with the sale of the PERC plant, from the boiler system and GE Steam Turbine, right down to the forklifts.

A few years ago, I did a broadcast from the PERC plant on a hot summer day, during Orrington's Old Home Week celebrations. I spoke with several employees who had been with the company for many, many years who told me they really enjoyed their jobs. So the new owner will not only be acquiring the plant, but also a group of very good and dedicated employees.

Any Reaction from Town Officials?

Orrington Town Manager Chris Backman told us the town has a vested interest in the future of the plant.

The Town will follow the process through and be a proactive participant throughout the entire time. We are also open to providing any assistance and/or facilitation possible all along the way.

Orrington is located between Brewer and Bucksport, on the Penobscot River and has a population of approximately 3,700 people.

When is the Auction?

Owners of the PERC plant are hoping to find a buyer by the auction date, which is set for July 12th. A preview date has also been set on June 20th, from 9 to noon. Anyone interested in getting a look at the facility on that day should reach out to Keenan Auctions at 207-885-5100 to schedule an appointment.

According to the listing, this is Keenan's 51st year in business and their 8,563rd auction.