NAACP Calls for Shutdown of xAI’s Alleged “Dirty Data Center” in Memphis
The NAACP has issued a strong demand to Memphis officials, urging them to halt operations at xAI’s Colossus facility – a site the civil rights organization describes as a “dirty data center.” The group claims the Elon Musk-owned company’s operations are violating environmental regulations and endangering local residents.
Environmental Concerns Spark Action
In a letter to local authorities, the NAACP expressed alarm about xAI’s use of gas turbines to power its Colossus supercomputer facility. The organization alleges the company has been operating 35 gas turbines without proper permits – more than double the 15 turbines covered by its current application.
According to the NAACP, these turbines emit dangerous pollutants including:
- Formaldehyde at levels exceeding EPA limits
- Nitrogen-oxide emissions
Disproportionate Impact on Black Community
The NAACP highlighted the facility’s location near South Memphis’ historically Black Boxtown neighborhood, stating it continues a troubling pattern of environmental injustice. The group noted the area already faces cancer risks four times higher than the national average.
“Instead of reducing health risks, authorities have allowed xAI to operate above the law,” the NAACP stated in its strongly-worded letter.
Regulatory Response and Next Steps
The letter was addressed to outgoing Shelby County Health Department Director Michelle Taylor and Memphis Light, Gas and Water officials. The NAACP demanded either:
- An emergency shutdown of operations
- Immediate enforcement of clean air violations
As of now, Memphis Light, Gas and Water claims it hasn’t received the NAACP’s letter. The situation remains developing as environmental groups and local officials weigh their response to these serious allegations against xAI’s Memphis operations.