The fires that ravaged Greece in 2026: nearly three-quarters of the burned area, linked to the electrical grid (Politico)

Approximately 75% of the area burned by wildfires in Greece this year is associated with the electrical grid. The sparks generated by outdated infrastructure and high energy demand have led to catastrophic fires, including two major fires in Attica and Crete, which destroyed over 14,000 acres and caused four deaths.

Although statistics suggest that most fires are not caused by the electrical grid, those caused by it are the most devastating.

The government is criticized for acting too slowly in improving electrical infrastructure and for not investing enough in underground cabling, despite the increased risks. The distribution operator HEDNO disputes the link between the grid and the fires.

Opposition parties are calling for urgent measures to prevent fires.