Giant data center complex approved for rural Orimattila

A massive data center development covering 300 hectares has been unanimously approved by Orimattila’s city council, transforming the rural landscape near the Porvoo River, reports Finnish public broadcaster Yle.

The project, driven by energy company Fortum, allows for nine data halls up to 27 meters tall—excluding additional rooftop cooling equipment—making them visible across the surrounding farmland and forests. The data center area alone spans 130 hectares, dwarfing similar facilities in Lappeenranta (41 hectares) and Lahti (10 hectares).

Local residents, including Rea Lammi, whose property borders the site, say they were unaware of the buildings’ true scale until last autumn. Lammi and others submitted objections, criticizing the lack of meaningful consultation. “Residents wanted 20-meter buildings, but that wasn’t considered at all. Instead, they raised it to 30 meters—then lowered it to 27 just to claim they’d listened. That’s not real engagement,” Lammi told Yle.

The area hosts protected white-beam trees and bat habitats, requiring exemptions for construction. While the council anticipates economic benefits—Fortum will pay €3.8 million for infrastructure and estimates 50–150 permanent jobs—Green Party member Saku Salminen noted concerns about nature loss, calling broader regulation a state responsibility.

Final permits for environmental and chemical safety are pending. The operator and total capacity remain undisclosed.