Berlin Plunged into Darkness: Arson Attack Causes Major Power Outage
Berlin, January 7, 2026 – A significant power outage struck southwest Berlin in early January 2026, leaving tens of thousands of households and businesses without electricity. The disruption was caused by an arson attack on a power cable bridge in the Steglitz-Zehlendorf district. Authorities announced that power restoration would begin gradually today, January 7, 2026, starting at 11 AM. Local emergency services are being supported by units from North Rhine-Westphalia, including an energy module from the Mönchengladbach Fire Department.
Details of the Incident
On January 3, 2026, a fire erupted on a cable bridge over the Teltow Canal, severely damaging high-voltage power lines. These cables are crucial for supplying electricity to southwest Berlin, resulting in approximately 45,000 households and 2,200 businesses temporarily losing power. The outage also impacted internet, heating, and mobile phone services in the affected areas.
Politically Motivated Attack
According to ongoing investigations, Berlin authorities believe the incident to be a politically motivated arson attack. A letter claiming responsibility, reportedly from a left-wing extremist group, has been found. Investigations are underway, with the Federal Public Prosecutor General also involved in the case.
Power Restoration Underway
After days of intensive repair work, officials stated that the Berlin power grid in the affected region would be gradually reactivated starting today at 11 AM. This means that initially, some areas will have their power restored, with full supply expected to follow. Authorities advise residents to ensure the grid is stable before switching on appliances such as washing machines or electric stoves, to prevent damage from power surges. Private emergency generators should also be disconnected before the main power supply returns.
Support from North Rhine-Westphalia and Mönchengladbach Fire Department
To manage the large-scale emergency, the state of North Rhine-Westphalia dispatched technical assistance to Berlin. This support includes several mobile grid replacement units (energy modules) with deployment teams from various locations. A team from the Mönchengladbach Fire Department, equipped with an energy module (a logistics vehicle and a 250 kVA grid replacement unit), traveled to Berlin to assist in providing power to critical infrastructure.
The power outage in southwest Berlin represents one of the most severe supply interruptions in the capital’s recent history. Thanks to coordinated repair efforts and support from other federal states, power supply is being restored today. The assistance from North Rhine-Westphalia, including the energy module from the Mönchengladbach Fire Department, is instrumental in stabilizing critical facilities during this transitional phase.
