Finland Orders Google to Halt Data Center Work Amid Environmental Concerns

Finland’s Permit and Supervision Agency (LVV) has instructed Google’s subsidiary, Tuike Finland Oy, to halt all land-altering work at two planned data center sites in Muhos and Kajaani until environmental impact assessments are completed. The agency’s directive, issued on 6 October 2026, requires the suspension of tree felling, soil removal, and road construction by 23 October 2026. Google has publicly stated it will comply with the agency’s guidance, though the regulator may issue a binding order with a conditional fine if the work continues.

The sites in Muhos and Kajaani span approximately 571 hectares and 405 hectares, respectively, with around 330 hectares and 200 hectares already prepared for construction. LVV argues that the preparatory work is comparable to starting the project itself, as it involves significant alterations to the landscape and water balance. The agency also expressed concerns about potential permanent changes to soil, vegetation, and water systems.

Tuike Finland Oy defended its actions, citing guidance from municipal building control authorities and adherence to the Building Act, which permits preparatory work before construction. The company also claimed that forestry work avoided protected zones and bird nesting seasons. However, LVV rejected these arguments, stating that the measures were neither temporary nor easily reversible and could compromise the environmental impact assessment process.

LVV’s head of the environmental department, Tommi Muilu, emphasized that the agency’s goal is to ensure the identification and assessment of environmental impacts, a key objective of the environmental impact assessment procedure. The suspension will remain in place until the assessment is completed and the authorities have reviewed the project’s environmental effects.