Left-wing extremist group claims arson attack on Berlin power grid causing large blackout

On January 4, 2026, early morning, the left-wing extremist group Vulkangruppe conducted an arson attack damaging a cable bridge over the Teltowkanal feeding the Lichterfelde gas power plant in southwest Berlin. The attack cut electricity to approximately 45,000 households and over 2200 companies primarily in Nikolassee, Zehlendorf, Wannsee, and Lichterfelde. The group framed the attack as resistance against fossil energy infrastructure, labeling it a 'common good-oriented' and solidarity action. Berlin's Governing Mayor Kai Wegner publicly condemned the attack citing risks to human safety. The damage was extensive, caused by incendiary devices placed directly under high-voltage cables, generating sustained heat and fire beyond conventional explosive devices' capability. Repair work requires connecting incompatible cable types (plastic and oil cables), demanding specialized experts and deep excavation. Police increased patrols in affected southern districts amid ongoing efforts to restore full electricity supplies, projected to complete by Thursday afternoon. The incident reflects heightened political violence targeting critical infrastructure in Germany.