4 publishers · first seen Thu, 29 Oct 2026 13:16 UTC · updated Thu, 29 Oct 2026 20:25 UTC
Finnish police have launched a criminal investigation into suspected breaches of environmental law at the construction site of a planned Google data centre in northern Finland. Authorities allege that Tuike Finland, a subsidiary of Alphabet's Google, conducted forest clearing and drainage near Muhos before completing required environmental impact assessments. The project is part of a $15 billion investment by Google in artificial intelligence infrastructure in Finland, which the company describes as its largest investment in Europe. Finnish authorities ordered Google to halt work at the Muhos site and another location in early October over the unauthorised preparatory measures.
The investigation focuses on possible violations of the Water Act and shortcomings in drainage and water management, with a potential corporate fine if wrongdoing is found. Detective Superintendent Kari Pakanen said the probe would continue into 2027, and a decision on resuming work depends on the Supervisory Agency (LVV). Google has said it will cooperate with authorities and maintain compliance at its sites.
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