The American technology giant wanted to cool the new data center with water from the nearby river. The data center, which is almost complete, retains its air cooling system. The Walloon administration for Waterways had previously given a positive advice, after which the amended permit was granted.

But after investigation, Desquesnes, the Minister for Spatial Planning, decided to refuse the permit as a precaution. According to him, the current drought in Wallonia and the consequences of climate change cause too much uncertainty. “I don’t want to commit myself to a hydrological context that is changing dramatically”, he explained Le Soir.

The minister says he has insufficient certainty that the Walloon Region can continue to bear the requested water consumption in the coming years. “There is a risk that the responsibility of the Region, including financially, will be jeopardized.”

Google confirms that it analyzing the decision. The company can appeal the minister’s decision to the Council of State.