Finnish police have opened a preliminary investigation into activities at Google’s planned data-centre site in Muhos, after receiving five requests to investigate from the Finnish Supervisory Agency. The case is being examined as suspected environmental damage, with police saying current information points to shortcomings in drainage and water management. The work is being carried out by Tuike Finland, Google’s local subsidiary, as part of the company’s €13 billion investment in Finland. Police say the investigation may take considerable time and aim to complete it during 2027.
The probe follows an order by the Supervisory Agency to suspend construction preparations at data-centre projects in Muhos and Kajaani-Otanmäki because required environmental impact assessments were unfinished. The authority found that the company’s plans did not adequately show how water-related impacts would be controlled. It has required a detailed water-management plan by 5 November, covering infrastructure, schedules and independent monitoring, and addressing heavy rain, snowmelt and risks associated with acidic black shale soils. Tuike Finland confirmed that preparatory work at both sites had stopped. The agency warned it could impose enforcement measures, including a conditional fine, if the company fails to take adequate action.
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