Finland orders pause on Google data-center site work

Finland’s Supervisory Agency has ordered Tuike Finland, a company representing Google, to suspend significant preparatory work at planned data-center sites in Muhos and Kajaani while environmental impact assessments are completed. The agency set October 23, 2026, as the latest date for the suspension to take effect and said Tuike Finland must explain its plans by October 14. The order follows an investigation into whether forest was cleared and other site work carried out without required assessments. The agency said preparations included removing trees, stripping topsoil, building roads and storage areas, and altering ditches. Its directive applies to measures that significantly change the environment at the two sites; it does not amount to a final finding that the company violated environmental rules. LVV said the environmental assessments are ongoing. If Tuike Finland does not comply with the demand, the agency said it may initiate enforcement proceedings. The assessments and the agency’s subsequent findings will determine how the work can proceed. Google acknowledged shortcomings in its handling of the matter, saying it would review LVV’s findings and follow its guidance.