Google to Procure 1.9GW in Minnesota; Faces Russian VPN Service Fine
Google and Xcel Energy will add 1.9GW of renewable capacity to Minnesota’s grid under long-term power purchase agreements to power Google’s data centers. Russia fined Google for distributing VPN services in violation of local rules, imposing an unspecified penalty that could increase its regional compliance costs.
1. Minnesota renewable energy partnership
Google has entered a partnership with Xcel Energy to secure 1.9GW of renewable energy capacity in Minnesota through long-term power purchase agreements. The deal represents Google’s largest single-state renewable procurement to date and is designed to support its expanding data center operations in the region.
2. Russian VPN distribution fine
Russian authorities have penalized Google for offering VPN services without required authorization under local regulations. While the exact fine amount was not disclosed, the enforcement action highlights increasing regulatory scrutiny and potential cost impacts for Google’s compliance functions in Russia.