Local Community Calls for Immediate Halt to xAI’s Colossus Supercomputer Operations in Memphis
Community advocates have demanded that authorities suspend all functions at the Colossus supercomputer site, operated by Elon Musk’s firm xAI, situated in South Memphis.
Environmental and Public Health Risks Spark Outcry
Civil rights organizations addressed a formal appeal to the shelby County Health Department and Memphis Light Gas and Water (MLGW),condemning what they describe as a reckless disregard for environmental safety surrounding this energy-intensive data center. They urged officials to issue an urgent order stopping xAI’s activities or, at minimum, enforce compliance with clean air laws.
Derrick Johnson, NAACP President and CEO, underscored that while artificial intelligence offers significant potential benefits if developed ethically, it must never jeopardize community health-especially within Black neighborhoods. He stressed that exploiting vulnerable populations under the pretense of innovation is unacceptable irrespective of the entity involved.
Unauthorized Operation of gas Turbines Raises Serious Concerns
The correspondence draws attention to troubling reports about gas turbines fueling Colossus. Although xAI has sought permits for fifteen turbines officially, evidence suggests more than thirty-five turbines have been active without proper authorization over the past year.Initially, local regulators claimed no permits were required during the facility’s frist year online.
These turbines release hazardous substances such as formaldehyde and nitrogen oxides at levels exceeding Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) limits. Such emissions considerably degrade air quality in nearby residential areas.
Disproportionate Burden on Historically Underserved Communities
The supercomputer complex borders Boxtown-a historically Black neighborhood in South Memphis-continuing a long-standing trend where polluting industries disproportionately impact communities with minimal influence over environmental decisions. The NAACP highlighted that cancer incidence rates here are already four times higher than national averages due to existing pollution exposure.
The group criticized shelby County Health Department for insufficiently addressing these persistent health hazards while permitting xAI operations beyond legal thresholds.
Leadership Transition Amid Heightened Oversight
This urgent letter was directed toward Michelle Taylor, outgoing director of Shelby County Health Department who is preparing to assume leadership of Baltimore City’s health agency.Meanwhile, MLGW representatives reportedly had not yet received official notification from NAACP regarding these issues when recently contacted by reporters.
