Finland halts Google data center work pending environmental reviews

Finland has ordered a halt to preparatory work at two planned Google data center sites in northern Finland until legally required environmental impact assessments are completed. The Finnish Licensing and Supervision Authority (LVV) directed Tuike Finland Oy, the company managing the projects, to suspend activities such as tree removal, topsoil stripping, and infrastructure construction at the sites in Muhos and Kajaani by October 23. These assessments, still underway, are expected to conclude later this year.

Google has agreed to comply with the authorities' instructions. Sondre Ronander, Google's head of communications for Finland and Norway, stated that the company will follow the Finnish authorities' guidance. Earlier, Google had claimed its actions adhered to Finnish forestry legislation, but authorities clarified that environmental impact assessments are governed by separate laws.

Finnish Minister of Climate and the Environment Sari Multala emphasized that all companies operating in Finland, regardless of their origin, must comply with local laws. She noted that responsibility extends through the subcontracting chain, with the international company ultimately accountable. The two projects are part of Google's 13-billion-euro investment plan for Finland, announced on September 9, which includes new data centers in Muhos, Kajaani, and Vaala, as well as an expansion of its existing facility in Hamina.

Preparatory work at the Muhos and Kajaani sites began earlier this year, with tree clearing starting in March, followed by other earthmoving and infrastructure work. Google described the investment as its largest single investment in Europe.