A significant fire broke out at Marquis Energy in Hennepin, Illinois, on Wednesday morning, prompting rapid response from several local fire departments. The fire occurred in the central maintenance building, which is housed in an older steel mill structure.
The Hennepin Fire Department reported on Facebook that crews were on the scene by 11:45 a.m., working to control the large blaze. Authorities urged the public to keep roads clear for emergency vehicles.
Marquis Energy Confirms Safety and Containment
Marquis Energy confirmed the fire affected its maintenance building but emphasized that all employees are safe and the blaze has been contained.
“The safety of our employees and community remains our top priority as we continue to work closely with first responders to manage the situation,” a company spokesperson said.
The company also stated that corn deliveries and ethanol production were not impacted, as the incident did not occur at the ethanol facility.
“As this incident did not occur at our ethanol facility,” said Allison Schwingle, spokesperson for Marquis Energy, “corn deliveries as well as ethanol production were not affected.”
Emergency Response and Public Safety
Local media, including 103.9 WLPO, shared live updates and videos of thick smoke rising from the plant as of 1 p.m. Firefighters from neighboring departments joined Hennepin crews to contain the fire and prevent its spread to nearby buildings. Residents in the area were advised to avoid the vicinity until the situation was under control.
Officials continue to monitor the plant and investigate the cause of the fire. No estimate of damages has been released.
Marquis Energy: Production and Operations
Marquis Energy is the world’s largest dry-grind ethanol facility, producing:
- 395 million gallons of renewable ethanol per year
- 900,000 tons of animal feed
- 17.5 million gallons of corn oil
- 1.2 million tonnes of carbon dioxide
The company works closely with first responders to ensure operations continue safely and efficiently. Updates regarding safety, operations, and investigation outcomes will be provided as they become available.
