In response to anticipated protests against its expansion plans, Tesla has announced the closure of its Berlin factory for all employees on Friday. The decision comes as demonstrators prepare to voice opposition to Elon Musk’s proposal to double the production capacity of the factory, citing concerns over environmental impact and resource consumption.
The halt in production, initially scheduled for this Friday, has been extended to include all workers as a precautionary measure due to the looming protests, according to reports from CNN affiliate RTL. André Thierig, a senior manufacturing director at the Tesla factory, confirmed the planned shutdown in a recent post.
The protests, organized by a coalition known as Disrupt, are set to span four days, starting Wednesday, with activists expressing concerns about deforestation and water supply strains associated with the factory’s expansion. Despite local opposition, Tesla has been determined to proceed with its plans, prompting dissent from environmental activists.
With tensions running high, German police have mobilized extensive operations in anticipation of potential disruptions. The protests are expected to encompass various activities, including demonstrations, lectures, and panel discussions near the factory site.
This recent closure marks the second time in as many months that the Berlin plant has faced disruptions. In March, operations were halted for a week following an arson attack on an electricity pylon supplying power to the facility, claimed by a group calling themselves the “Volcano Group.”
As the controversy surrounding Tesla’s expansion continues to escalate, the future of the Berlin factory hangs in the balance amidst growing opposition and environmental concerns.
