Protection of the electricity grid is to be further expanded

A number of critical points in Berlin’s electricity grid are now being better secured in the wake of the attack on 3 January.

The Berlin Senate intends to further strengthen the protection of the electricity grid and other critical infrastructure. This was announced by Senator for Economic Affairs Franziska Giffey (SPD) following the Senate meeting on Tuesday (19 May 2026).

She cited technical measures as examples, such as the installation of additional CCTV cameras at key locations, including on public roads, and the use of artificial intelligence (AI) systems to detect potential attacks – such as the devastating arson attack on 3 January – at an early stage. Such systems include thermal imaging cameras, motion sensors and vibration sensors.

Overhead power lines are to be buried underground

There are also plans to bury overhead power lines underground. However, this is likely to take some time. Although, according to previous figures, 99 per cent of Berlin’s electricity network is already underground, given that the network spans 36,000 kilometres, one per cent still amounts to 360 kilometres. According to Giffey, the main difficulty lies in crossing waterways such as canals. As a new option, the Senate is focusing on a system for laying pressure pipes beneath the water. An initial drilling operation beneath the Dahme in Köpenick has been successful.

Unbundling of cable trays

Another element of the action plan discussed by the Senate is the decoupling of cable bridges containing numerous cables, with a view to reducing the number of critical points. As part of the modernisation and expansion of the electricity grid, additional ‘georedundancies’ are to be created – meaning that damage to the grid can be more easily bypassed using alternative cables, thereby ensuring a continuous supply.

Numerous protective measures have been taken since January

Giffey pointed out that numerous additional security measures had already been put in place since the power cut in Steglitz-Zehlendorf in January 2026. Video surveillance and security guard patrols had been significantly stepped up at key locations. In addition, there were many other measures currently underway, such as reinforcing or erecting new fences, installing more lighting and fitting alarm systems. According to Giffey, 20 kilometres of additional fencing will be built by summer at sensitive locations such as substations and network hubs. Plans also include a new fencing standard of 2.40 metres in height, reinforced with barbed wire.

Protection of critical points in three dimensions

"The attacks on our energy infrastructure have shown that we must remain vigilant and take decisive action," said Giffey. That is why the protection of critical infrastructure will be improved through a three-pronged approach comprising technical safeguards, organisational precautions and enhanced physical security.