Finland probes Google data centre land clearance
The gist
Finnish police are investigating suspected environmental-law breaches at a planned Google data centre site in Muhos.
The case tests how Finland's AI investment boom squares with its environmental permitting rules.
How it unfolded
- 2024Google acquired 1,400 hectares of land in Kajaani and Muhos from state-run forest agency Metsähallitus without detailing plans for the sites.
- February 2026Google added 900 hectares in Vaala to its Finland land portfolio for a possible data centre project.
- September 2026Google announced a €13 billion (about $15.1 billion) investment in Finnish AI infrastructure, described as its largest investment in Europe.