NAACP Demands Halt to xAI Data Center Operations in Memphis
The NAACP is urging Memphis officials to immediately shut down Elon Musk's xAI data center, Colossus, located in South Memphis. The civil rights organization alleges the facility is operating in violation of clean air regulations, posing significant health risks to the surrounding community.
In a letter sent to the Shelby County Health Department and Memphis Light Gas and Water, the NAACP expressed serious concerns about the numerous gas turbines powering Colossus. xAI has applied for a permit to operate 15 turbines, but the NAACP claims the company has been operating at least 35 without proper permitting for the past year. These turbines reportedly emit hazardous pollutants, including formaldehyde, exceeding EPA limits. The NAACP also highlighted concerns about nitrogen-oxide emissions.
Environmental Justice Concerns Raised
The Colossus facility is located near Boxtown, a historically Black neighborhood in South Memphis. The NAACP argues that the facility's location perpetuates a pattern of placing polluting industries in vulnerable communities. The organization contends that the Shelby County Health Department, instead of mitigating existing health risks in the area, has allowed xAI to operate above the law.
The NAACP's letter emphasizes that cancer risks in the area are already four times the national average. The organization is calling for an emergency order to cease xAI's operations entirely or, at minimum, to cite and stop the company from allegedly violating clean air laws.
The letter is addressed to Shelby County Health Department Director Michelle Taylor and Memphis Light Gas and Water commissioners. Taylor is transitioning to a new role as commissioner of the Baltimore City Health Department.
TechCrunch has contacted both the NAACP and xAI for comment. A spokesperson for Memphis Light Gas and Water told NBC News they had not yet received the NAACP's letter. The original NBC News report can be found here: NBC News Report. The NAACP's letter is available here: NAACP Letter. Further reporting on xAI's gas turbine permit application can be found here: TechCrunch Report.
