The NAACP has officially called upon Memphis leaders to halt xAI’s operations at their new facility. This facility, dubbed Colossus, is located in South Memphis. This demand increases with each passing day that the environmental and health impacts of the facility’s operations are revealed. People are most concerned about the gas turbines that fuel it. Elon Musk’s xAI is already facing criticism for its predatory practices. Activists and community leaders are warning about the dangerous effects it could have on people who live in these communities.
To run Colossus, xAI uses gas turbines, which poses potential air quality and public health issues for nearby neighborhoods. The NAACP has raised these concerns in a letter sent to local officials, highlighting the need for urgent action. The organization has urged officials to “issue an emergency order for xAI to stop operations completely,” emphasizing the community’s vulnerability to pollution.
In the last 12 months, Memphis regulators have allowed xAI to run at least 35 gas powered peaker plants. Remarkably, they accomplished all of this without needing a single permit. City officials initially argued that xAI lacked permits because the turbines were exempt from needing them under their first year of operation. The NAACP argues that this leniency is detrimental, highlighting a “lackadaisical approach to the operation of this dirty data center.” They contend that the grave health risks in the community require immediate action. Since their cancer rates are already four times the national average, they are convinced that a more stringent regulatory response should be warranted.
The NAACP’s letter issued bold demands to stop the expansion of industries that continue to pollute our communities. These communities have not caused the pollution problems. They stated, “Instead of [the Shelby County Health Department] working to reduce health issues known in the area including that cancer risks are already four times the national average, it has allowed xAI to operate above the law.” This striking indictment is intended to draw attention to the organization’s belief that local agencies are putting the health and safety of residents in jeopardy.
xAI has recently applied for a permit to continue operating 15 gas turbines at Colossus, indicating its intent to expand or sustain its operations despite community concerns. Our use of this application will surely face criticism as government officials consider the potential health harms versus the company’s need to operate.
As these discussions play out, state residents and advocacy organizations will be closely watching further developments related to xAI and its new home. The NAACP’s proactive stance reflects a growing sentiment among residents who feel that their health and environment are at risk due to unregulated industrial activities.
