XAI Faces Backlash Over Pollution in Memphis

Elon Musk’s xAI has established its 'Colossus' supercomputer facility in Southwest Memphis, powered by Tesla Megapack batteries and methane gas turbines. Within 11 months, xAI has become the largest industrial emitter of nitrogen oxide in Memphis, with estimated annual emissions of 1,200 to 2,000 tons, according to environmental groups. The facility operates without proper permits and has drawn criticism for lacking pollution controls in a predominantly Black, low-income area already facing high rates of asthma, cancer, and pollution from multiple industries. Community leaders and environmental advocates argue that xAI’s technological advances should not compromise public health, citing a legacy of environmental injustice in the neighborhood. Despite upgrading to a new electric substation, xAI continues to rely on polluting gas turbines, sparking calls for cleaner alternatives. Musk and xAI have not addressed public concerns or responded to questions about compliance and health impacts.