Finnish regulators have ordered Google to suspend site preparation for two planned data centers in Muhos and Kajaani, citing concerns about environmental damage and the non-completion of required environmental impact assessments. The Finnish Supervisory Agency (LVV) issued the order to Tuike Finland Oy, Google’s subsidiary responsible for the projects.
Preparatory activities allegedly included illegally clearing of trees and topsoil, building access roads and storage areas, and modifying drainage ditches. Tuike Finland Oy must explain its actions and outline its next steps by October 14 and the LVV could initiate enforcement proceedings if the company fails to meet its requirements.
As per a report by Yle, Finland’s national public broadcasting company, regulators observed that the work could “significantly alter the environment” and must remain suspended until the environmental assessment procedures are completed.
In a statement to the BBC, Google said, “We understand the concerns and have fallen short of our own high standards in this instance, we acted in good faith under the Forestry Act, as we continue our long-term work in the region, we are advancing our landscaping and biodiversity plans, which include tree planting across 130 hectares at Muhos.”
Readers will recall in early September that Google announced ambitious plans to invest € 13 billion (US$ 15 billion) in Finland between 2027 and 2028, to expand its data center and digital infrastructure in Hamina, Kajaani, Muhos and Vaala. The investment will include AI infrastructure, as well as power, battery storage and renewable energy projects.
Finland has become an increasingly attractive location for data center development because of its cool climate and access to low-carbon electricity, which can reduce the energy required to operate and cool facilities.