Google Ordered to Suspend Work on Finnish Data Centers

Finnish authorities have mandated that Google suspend operations on two proposed data centers pending comprehensive environmental reviews. The technology giant had intended to invest €13 billion in the nation’s artificial intelligence infrastructure.

The Finnish Licensing and Supervision Agency (LVV) issued a formal notice to Google subsidiary Tuike Finland to immediately halt data center projects in the Kajaani and Muhos regions until environmental impact assessment (EIA) procedures are finalized. Tommi Muilu, head of the authority’s environmental department, stated that current reports indicate significant preparatory work had already commenced at the sites, including deforestation, topsoil removal, the construction of site roads and storage areas, and modifications to drainage systems and culverts.

“In our opinion, the measures in question will change the environment and cause impacts, the identification and assessment of which are among the key objectives of the EIA procedure,” Muilu remarked. The suspension order specifically encompasses the removal of trees and topsoil, excavation, quarrying, crushing, soil mass transfers, and the construction of site infrastructure. The request does not extend to planning, topographical measurements, soil surveys, or other activities with minimal impacts that can be easily remediated.

The notice directed Tuike Finland Oy to cease work no later than October 23 until the environmental assessments are concluded. “We understand the concerns and have fallen short of our own high standards in this instance,” a Google representative stated, adding that the company will adhere to the LVV’s directives. In addition to the data centers, the infrastructure project encompasses AI facilities, nuclear energy, and renewable power as part of Google’s largest individual capital expenditure in Europe.