The xAI Supercomputer Faces Lawsuit Over Pollution Concerns
The xAI supercomputer, known as Colossus, is currently under scrutiny as the NAACP and the Southern Environmental Law Center consider filing a lawsuit against the facility due to pollution concerns related to its gas-powered turbines. This has sparked a heated debate surrounding the environmental impact versus the economic benefits of the data center.
Operational since last year, xAI has been using pollution-emitting turbines without an air permit, claiming a 364-day exemption. However, Southern Environmental Law Center attorney Patrick Anderson argues that there is no such exemption for turbines and that the deadline has now passed.
In response to these concerns, the groups have issued a 60-day notice of intent to sue under the Clean Air Act, challenging xAI’s permit application currently under review by the Shelby County Health Department.
Critics have raised alarm over the emissions from the turbines, which include smog, carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and formaldehyde, potentially exacerbating health risks in an area where cancer rates are four times the national average.
The Southern Environmental Law Center has highlighted that the permit itself acknowledges that emissions from the site could be a source of hazardous air pollutants, leading to allegations of Clean Air Act violations.
Furthermore, opponents claim that xAI has exceeded the requested number of turbines, installing up to 35 without community oversight, putting a strain on Memphis’s power grid.
In defense, xAI has stated that the temporary power generation units are operating in compliance with all applicable laws. The company has emphasized its economic contributions, including billions in investments, millions in taxes, and hundreds of job opportunities.
At a recent community meeting, xAI’s Brent Mayo emphasized the importance of tax revenue generated by the company, supporting essential programs such as public safety, health, education, and more. xAI projects to generate over $100 million in tax revenue by the following year and is investing in sustainable energy solutions, particularly Tesla Megapacks, to transition away from gas turbines.
Recently, xAI has begun demobilizing the gas turbines and investing in a power substation and water recycling plant. The company brought Tesla Megapack batteries and a 150-megawatt substation online earlier this year.
Despite xAI’s plans for expansion and sustainability efforts, the threat of a lawsuit underscores the ongoing tensions between innovation and environmental justice.