A suspected arson attack on critical infrastructure in Berlin has plunged tens of thousands of homes, along with hospitals and businesses, into darkness during near-freezing temperatures, raising fresh concerns about the security of energy networks in Germany.
A far-left activist organization calling itself the Vulkangruppe, or “Volcano Group,” has claimed responsibility for the incident. In a statement circulated online, the group said the action was intended to target what it described as the “fossil fuel economy,” insisting that disrupting electricity supplies was not the ultimate aim. Authorities are treating the claim seriously as part of an ongoing investigation.
The incident occurred early Saturday morning when several power cables on a bridge near a power plant in south-west Berlin were discovered on fire. Emergency services responded quickly and managed to extinguish the blaze before it could spread further. Despite the rapid response, the damage caused a major power outage affecting approximately 45,000 households and more than 2,200 businesses.
Critical services were also impacted. Hospitals, care facilities, and essential infrastructure were forced to rely on backup power systems, while many residents reported difficulties heating their homes as temperatures hovered around freezing. Energy providers have warned that restoring electricity to all affected customers will take several days, with full reconnection expected by Thursday. As a result, some schools are set to remain closed at the start of the week.
Berlin’s authorities have condemned the attack, stressing that damage to energy infrastructure puts lives at risk and disrupts public safety. Police are increasing patrols around key facilities while investigators work to determine how the perpetrators gained access to the site and whether additional attacks were planned.
The incident has reignited debate in Germany over protest tactics, infrastructure security, and the balance between political activism and public safety, as officials urge calm and patience while repairs continue.
