Elon Musk’s AI company xAI has been granted permission to operate 15 methane gas generators at its Memphis data centre, despite strong community opposition.
The Shelby County Health Department approved the permit following months of public protests, though satellite images suggest over 20 turbines remain on-site, well above the permitted number.
xAI had previously run the generators without a permit, exploiting a loophole that allowed temporary use under a 364-day limit.
The company claims the facility will be among the cleanest of its kind, but local activists and environmental groups dispute that, citing risks of air pollution and health impacts.
Residents of the predominantly Black neighbourhood nearby, already facing high rates of respiratory illness and cancer, have raised concerns.
The NAACP has filed a lawsuit, alleging the company violated the Clean Air Act. Critics say the decision ignores the health and environmental needs of an overburdened community.