xAI, an artificial intelligence startup founded by Elon Musk, plans to power its "Colossus" supercomputer in Memphis, Tennessee, using 15 gas turbines. These turbines will operate non-stop from June 2025 to June 2030. The Shelby County Health Department has issued an operating permit for the turbines, although they have been running since summer 2024 without public notice or oversight. The self-reported emissions from each turbine are 11.51 tons of hazardous air pollutants (HAP) per year, including formaldehyde, surpassing the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) 10-ton annual cap for a single source.
The Southern Environmental Law Center, a prominent environmental nonprofit, has raised concerns regarding the health and environmental impact of the emissions. Eric Hilt, a spokesperson for the organization, criticized the lack of transparency in the operations.
"It’s another example of the company not being transparent with the community or with local leaders." – Eric Hilt
The facility's operating permit does not account for the emissions from when the turbines began running in 2024. This oversight has prompted environmental advocates to question the adequacy of regulatory measures in place to protect public health. The continuous operation of the turbines without proper oversight highlights gaps in community engagement and regulatory compliance.
The Shelby County Health Department holds the responsibility of ensuring that the operations comply with local and federal regulations. However, the permit's failure to address emissions since 2024 underscores a potential lapse in regulatory enforcement. Local residents and environmental groups are calling for more stringent oversight and accountability from both xAI and local authorities.
Leave a Reply