Residents of Memphis, along with environmental groups, are voicing strong concerns over Elon Musk’s artificial intelligence company, xAI, and its massive Colossus supercomputer facility operating in the area. Since xAI launched operations last summer, community members have alleged that the facility has significantly worsened local air quality, heightening existing fears about cancer and asthma risks in a predominantly Black neighborhood already facing industrial pollution.
An investigation by the Southern Environmental Law Center (SELC) found that xAI installed at least 35 portable methane gas turbines at the site without securing the required air permits. Satellite and thermal imaging indicated that all turbines were operational, contradicting local officials’ claims that only 15 were active.
“It is appalling that xAI would operate more than 30 methane gas turbines without any permits or any public oversight,” said Amanda Garcia, an attorney with the SELC.
Despite rising public concern, Memphis Mayor Paul Young has voiced support for Elon Musk’s xAI project, which has drawn criticism over environmental and permitting issues. Mayor Young defended the company, claiming that xAI is operating fewer turbines than alleged and is awaiting necessary permit approvals.
However, activist groups remain skeptical. Their doubts intensified after thousands of residents received anonymous fliers asserting that the turbines use “cleaner tech” and produce “low emissions”—claims that contradict statements from local agencies.
In response to the growing controversy, State Representative Justin Pearson has scheduled a public health hearing on Friday, urging residents to attend. Pearson warned that the distributed fliers contain misleading information about air quality rights, potentially obscuring the real risks facing the community.
Tensions are expected to intensify as xAI moves forward with plans to expand its Memphis facility to over one million square feet, highlighting a deepening clash between economic development ambitions and environmental protection efforts.
