2026 arson attack on the Berlin power grid

An arson attack on the Berlin power grid was carried out on January 3, 2026, resulting in power outages for more than 40,000 households and 2,000 businesses across southwest Berlin. The attack consisted of a cable bridge in Lichterfelde being set on fire, leading to the longest lasting power outage in the city since 1945. The power outage was not fully resolved for four days.

A letter claiming responsibility was published on the Internet by a left-wing extremist Vulkangruppe. However, a few days later, a Vulkangruppe distanced itself from the actions carried out in its name. On January 6, 2026, investigations were transferred from the Berlin police to the Public Prosecutor General due to accused membership of the perpetrators in a terrorist organization.