Google Finland Data Center Probe: 330 Hectares Felled in Muhos

Finnish authorities confirmed on 29 October a criminal investigation into possible environmental offences at the site of a planned Google data center in Muhos, in northern Finland. The work under scrutiny was carried out by Tuike Finland, the company's local subsidiary. Police are examining whether it breached water legislation and caused environmental damage. For now, these remain suspicions.

From site preparation to a police case

Around 330 hectares of forest have been felled on the project land, according to Finnish broadcaster Yle, alongside soil work and drainage changes. Environmental assessments were still pending when the Finnish supervisory authority, known as LVV, intervened. On 6 October it ordered Tuike Finland to halt preparatory work likely to alter the surroundings significantly, both in Muhos and at a second project in Kajaani-Otanmäki. Google confirmed on 14 October that it had suspended work at both sites, though planning, measurements and low-impact studies may continue.

The focus is now on water. Drainage ditches can change how water flows, and the regulator judged the company's plan insufficient for handling heavy rain, snowmelt and possible acidification linked to soil composition. It demanded a more detailed plan by 5 November. A conviction could bring a corporate fine, and the investigation is expected to run until 2027.

Google's response

Google says it acted in line with its reading of Finnish law. On 13 October, country head Antti Järvinen apologized publicly and said the company had worked with authorities and experts, but did not specify which bodies had been informed. He denied that felling was deliberately accelerated to get ahead of the assessments. After the criminal probe became known, a spokesperson told Reuters the company would cooperate with police.

Why it matters

The case comes as Google plans to invest at least €13 billion in Finnish digital infrastructure in 2027 and 2028. Finland attracts data centers with its cold climate and low-emission electricity, but grid operator Fingrid estimates national consumption could rise up to 40% above 2025 levels if all projects with connection agreements go ahead.

The project now faces two separate unknowns. The supervisory body must decide on the permits needed to resume work, with no set deadline. Investigators plan to report progress in December. Resolving one does not settle the other.