Elon Musk’s AI venture, Xai, has received authorization to use methane gas generators at a significant data center located in Memphis, Tennessee. The county health department approved permits for 15 generators on Wednesday, a decision that has ignited protests from local communities and environmental advocates who argue that the generators will pollute the area.

“Our local officials are meant to safeguard our right to clean air, yet we are witnessing their failures,” stated Keshaun Pearson, the director of the Memphis community environmental nonprofit.

Xai established a sizable data center in Memphis about a year ago and introduced several portable methane gas generators to address the facility’s high energy demands. Although Xai lacked permissions for these generators, they seem to have exploited a loophole allowing the turbines to operate unless stationed at the same site for over 364 days.

In January, Xai sought approval for 15 generators. After extensive public meetings and community protests, the Shelby County Health Department approved the request. Satellite images provided to the Guardian by the Southern Environmental Law Center, a reputable nonprofit, reveal that at least 24 turbines remain operational at the Xai facility as of Tuesday.

“Xai welcomes the decision announced today,” said a company spokesperson in a statement. “Our on-site power generation utilizes state-of-the-art emission control technology, making this facility one of the cleanest in the nation.”

Environmental organizations question the actual emissions from Xai’s electricity usage. Research by the Southern Environmental Law Center indicates that these turbines could emit thousands of tons of harmful nitrogen oxides and toxic substances like formaldehyde.

“The decision to issue air permits to Xai for contaminated gas turbines dismisses the opinions of countless Memphians who opposed this permit,” remarked Amanda Garcia, a senior lawyer at the Southern Environmental Law Center. She noted that the health department is permitting another contaminant to set up operations in an already burdened community without adequate safety measures.

Situated in an industrial area of Memphis, Xai is surrounded by neighborhoods that have long struggled with pollution issues. This historically black community faces elevated rates of respiratory diseases and asthma and has a shorter lifespan compared to other regions of the city. Studies indicate that these areas show a cancer risk four times higher than the national average.

The pollution from Xai’s operations, particularly affecting nearby black neighborhoods, has drawn attention from civil rights groups like the NAACP, which has filed a lawsuit against the company. They allege that Xai is in breach of the Clean Air Act by unlawfully installing and operating a methane gas generator.

“The NAACP is hopeful that the 15 generators at Xai will enhance transparency and accountability regarding methane emissions, yet this decision overlooks the objections of the community. We remain committed to holding both Xai and the health department accountable,” they stated.