Finnish authorities call for the suspension of Google’s artificial intelligence data center operations

The Finnish Supervisory Agency (LVV) has asked the company representing Google to suspend, no later than October 23, 2026, all preparatory work that could significantly alter the environment at the data center projects in Muhos and Kajaani. The decision concerns forest clearing and land interventions carried out before environmental obligations were clarified.

LVV is investigating whether hundreds of hectares of forest were cleared without conducting a mandatory environmental impact assessment. According to the authority, trees were removed, topsoil was stripped, and construction roads, storage areas, and altered ditches were built in the area.

The Finnish Association for Nature Conservation says the work affected more than 300 hectares, including natural sites that should have been protected. The company must respond to the agency’s requests and explain how it intends to continue the projects by October 14. Otherwise, LVV may initiate enforcement proceedings.

In September, Google announced a €13 billion investment in Finland’s digital infrastructure over the next two years to support the development of artificial intelligence. The company’s spokesperson acknowledged that internal standards had not been followed and said Google would comply with the authorities’ instructions. The company says it intends to plant trees on 130 hectares in Muhos. Minister of the Environment and Climate Sari Multala estimates that the projects will be delayed.