Last summer,an abandoned factory in southwest Memphis was repurposed by musk’s AI company,XAI,into what he has called the “world’s most powerful AI training system,” dubbed “Coloso,” according to Musk’s X account. The project was touted as a source of jobs, tax revenue, and a boost to Memphis’s ”digital delta” initiative, aimed at establishing the city as a hub for advanced technology.
XAI has indicated plans for further expansion in Memphis, according to its website.
Community Fears Over Pollution
Tho, the project has generated apprehension among residents of the nearby Boxtown community, a predominantly black and economically disadvantaged area already burdened by industrial pollution.
The concern stems from the notable energy demands of artificial intelligence and XAI’s installation of numerous gas-powered turbines, which are known to emit toxic pollutants. While the company is reportedly operating under a temporary turbine exemption without required air permits, environmental groups argue that this exemption is not applicable, fueling local residents’ discontent.
“Our health was never considered, the security of our communities was never considered,”
Sarah Gladney, resident living approximately 3 miles from the facility, told CNN.
XAI has not responded to requests for comment, according to CNN.
A History of Pollution in Southwest Memphis
This section of Memphis already hosts 17 other polluting facilities, including an oil refinery, a steel plant, and a gas energy plant, and has a long history of environmental advocacy.
Residents feel they are now facing not only a powerful business magnate, but also the potential weakening of environmental regulations. Erika Sugarmon, a Shelby County commissioner, expressed concern over the elimination of environmental safeguards, according to CNN.
“All these salvoconducts are being eliminated. So, where does one turn to?”
Erika Sugarmon, Shelby County commissioner, told CNN.
AI Ambitions and Local Support
The Memphis installation supports XAI’s chatbot, Grok, which the company markets as an alternative to other AI models. Grok has faced criticism for its content moderation policies.
Memphis Mayor Paul Young has voiced support for XAI’s presence,citing the potential for hundreds of jobs and an estimated $30 million in tax revenue in the first year,according to the Memphis Chamber of Commerce.
What we are seeing is an prospect to completely transform our economy. It’s revolutionary,
Memphis mayor paul Young told CNN.
Legislators Voice Concerns
Some local legislators claim they were not adequately informed about the project. State representative Justin Pearson, who lives approximately 3 miles from the site, said he was surprised by the progress, according to CNN. His initial concern was the strain on the power grid, citing recent winter blackouts.
The facility receives 150 megawatts of power from Memphis Light, Gas and Water (MLGW), enough to power approximately 100,000 homes. MLGW stated that an impact study was conducted to ensure grid reliability.XAI is seeking approval for an additional 150 megawatts.
Gas turbines at the XAI facility. Source: CNN.
Health Risks and Air Quality
Gas turbines emit pollutants such as nitrogen oxides, a component of smog, which can trigger asthma attacks and other respiratory issues. They also produce formaldehyde,a known carcinogen,and fine particulate matter that can penetrate the lungs and enter the bloodstream.
southwest Memphis already faces significant air quality challenges. Industrial sources in the area pose a cancer risk 4.1 times greater than the EPA’s acceptable level, according to a ProPublica analysis. Shelby County received an “F” grade for ozone levels from the American Lung Association and has higher rates of childhood asthma hospitalizations than other counties in Tennessee.
Aerial images were taken by the Southern Environmental Law Center and South Wings.
Musk’s AI Supercomputer in Memphis: What You Need to Know
What’s the story behind Elon Musk’s AI venture in Memphis?
A new artificial intelligence project by Elon Musk’s AI company, XAI, is generating both excitement and concern in Memphis, Tennessee. The project involves repurposing an abandoned factory in southwest Memphis into a powerful AI training system called “Coloso.” While touted as a source of jobs and tax revenue, it’s also raising environmental worries among local residents.
What is “Coloso” and what will it be used for?
“Coloso” is being called the “world’s most powerful AI training system.” It’s designed to support the development of XAI’s chatbot, Grok, which competes with other AI models.
Why is Musk’s AI project facing scrutiny in Memphis?
The primary concern revolves around potential environmental impacts, specifically regarding air pollution. Residents, notably those in the Boxtown community, are worried about the addition of gas-powered turbines and their emissions in an area already burdened by industrial pollution.
What are the specific environmental concerns related to the XAI project?
The main environmental concern stems from the installation of gas-powered turbines to provide power for the AI supercomputer. These turbines emit pollutants like:
Nitrogen oxides: A component of smog that can trigger asthma attacks and respiratory issues.
Formaldehyde: A known carcinogen.
* Fine particulate matter: This can penetrate the lungs and enter the bloodstream.
Is XAI operating legally in Memphis?
XAI is reportedly operating under a temporary turbine exemption without required air permits. Environmental groups are contesting the applicability of this exemption, which has fueled discontent among local residents.
Who is impacted by the potential pollution?
The Boxtown community, a predominantly Black and economically disadvantaged area in southwest Memphis, is the most directly impacted
Catherine Williams brings over 20 years of distinguished journalism and editorial leadership to NewsDirectory3. Catherine began her career as a political where she covered two presidential elections. Catherine has led newsroom transformations, launched digital initiatives, and mentored dozens of award-winning journalists. Her expertise spans editorial strategy, newsroom management, crisis communication, and digital media innovation.
