The Mississippi Environmental Quality Permit Board has given the green light for xAI to install 41 permanent gas turbines at its facility in Southaven. This decision will allow the company to power its “Colossus 2” data center in nearby Memphis, which supports the Grok AI chatbot.
During a public meeting in Jackson, the board unanimously approved the permit for MZX Tech, an affiliate of xAI. These new turbines will replace 27 unpermitted turbines currently in operation at the site. While xAI claims that this move will enhance technological leadership and economic growth in Mississippi, local residents living near the plant have raised serious concerns about their health and quality of life.
For months, families in the area have been troubled by a constant droning noise resembling a jet engine coming from the site. Shannon Samsa, a Southaven resident, voiced her concerns to the board during the meeting, stating that the permit prioritizes industrial development over the safety of the community. Other residents expressed doubt about xAI’s commitment to following the new rules, citing previous instances where the company ignored complaints about noise and air pollution.
In an effort to address environmental worries, the permit mandates that xAI utilize specific control technologies to limit harmful emissions. The company is also required to conduct regular modeling to demonstrate compliance with air quality standards. Representative Brent Mayo reassured the public that xAI has collaborated with the EPA and state regulators to ensure that the project meets and surpasses legal requirements.
Despite legal threats from the NAACP, who plans to sue xAI for allegedly violating the Clean Air Act by using unpermitted turbines, state regulators defended their decision by arguing that the original turbines were temporary. However, residents like Samsa feel let down by the system and are considering legal action to protect their community.
The approval of the permit comes amidst other news in the tech industry, with Tesla filing a lawsuit against former supplier Matthews International for alleged theft of trade secrets related to its dry electrode battery manufacturing process. Additionally, new footage from Gigafactory Texas has provided insight into the specialized hardware that will support Tesla’s future robotaxis during inclement weather. Sendil Palani, Tesla’s Vice President of Finance, also announced his departure after a 17-year tenure with the company.
These developments underscore the ever-evolving landscape of technology and environmental concerns, highlighting the importance of balancing innovation with community well-being and legal compliance.