Germany’s Volunteer Army Steps Up as Blackouts and Storms Test Communities

When the lights go out, they’re the first to act. Meet the everyday heroes of Germany’s THW—equipped, trained, and ready to save lives in a crisis.

, and Administrator

2026 January 17 . 12:41 PM

1 min read

The image shows an aerial view of the camp of the Army of Occupation, with tents, people, water,... — The image shows an aerial view of the camp of the Army of Occupation, with tents, people, water, hills, and a sky in the background. At the bottom of the image, there is text.

THW in Hesse: Special teams secure critical infrastructure - Germany’s Volunteer Army Steps Up as Blackouts and Storms Test Communities

Germany’s Federal Agency for Technical Relief (THW) stands ready to respond to emergencies across the country. With nearly 88,000 volunteers nationwide, the organisation plays a key role in crises—from severe storms to prolonged power outages. Recent deployments, including a major blackout in Berlin, highlight its growing importance in safeguarding communities.

The THW operates on a largely volunteer basis, with over 14,000 members in Hesse, Rhineland-Palatinate, and Saarland alone. In Hesse, more than a dozen specialised units focus on protecting critical infrastructure, such as hospitals and water supplies. These teams are equipped to restore power quickly, using advanced tools and backup systems.

Across Germany, the agency maintains a robust stockpile of emergency equipment. This includes roughly 2,700 mobile tent heaters for temporary shelters and thousands of generators to replace failed power grids. Around 60 emergency supply and repair teams in Hesse handle tasks like flood pumping and setting up relief stations. The THW’s flexible structure allows it to redirect resources wherever they are most needed. During January’s multi-day blackout in southwestern Berlin, volunteers provided essential support to residents left without electricity. Their work ranged from distributing supplies to helping restore power in affected areas.

The THW’s extensive preparations ensure rapid response during disasters. With specialised units, backup generators, and a nationwide network of volunteers, the agency remains a critical part of Germany’s emergency infrastructure. Their ability to mobilise quickly helps communities recover faster when crises strike.