Finland tells Google to suspend work at 2 data center sites for environmental concerns

Finland’s Licensing and Supervision Agency told Google’s subsidiary to suspend environment-altering preparatory work at two planned data centers until environmental impact assessments are completed.

The agency said Tuesday that Tuike Finland Oy must immediately halt relevant work in Muhos and Kajaani no later than Oct. 23.

The notice covers tree removal, topsoil stripping, excavation, quarrying, crushing, earthmoving, ditching and construction of site roads and storage areas. Planning, measurements, soil surveys and other activities with minor, easily reversible effects can continue.

Environmental department head Tommi Muilu said extensive preparatory work had already taken place, potentially weakening the assessment process and limiting opportunities to examine alternatives and prevent environmental damage.

The regulator gave the subsidiary until Oct. 14 to submit a written explanation, including whether it intends to comply.

If the company fails to follow the notices, the agency said it would consider compulsory enforcement measures, potentially backed by a conditional fine. It said its initial aim was voluntary compliance.

Environmental assessments for both projects remain underway, with assessment reports expected to be completed this year.

The intervention comes weeks after Google announced plans to invest at least €13 billion ($14.5 billion) in Finnish digital infrastructure during 2027 and 2028, describing the commitment as its largest single investment in Europe.

The program covers data centers and supporting infrastructure in Hamina, Kajaani, Muhos and Vaala, alongside energy partnerships and local community initiatives.

Google said the construction phase could contribute an annual average of €3.6 billion to Finland’s gross domestic product and support more than 37,000 jobs nationwide. The facilities are projected to support 7,000 jobs annually once operational.