NAACP Calls for Halt to Memphis Data Center Operations

NAACP Calls for Halt to xAI’s Colossus Supercomputer Operations

The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) is urging local authorities to suspend operations at Colossus. This facility, described as a “supercomputer” and operated by Elon Musk’s xAI, is located in South Memphis.

Concerns Over Air Quality and Permitting

According to reports from NBC News, the NAACP sent a letter to the Shelby County Health Department and Memphis Light Gas and Water on Thursday. The letter criticizes what they perceive as a lenient oversight of the data center’s operations.

The civil rights group is requesting either an emergency order to halt xAI’s operations or, at minimum, citations and enforcement actions for alleged violations of clean air regulations.

NAACP President’s Statement

Derrick Johnson, President and CEO of the NAACP, stated that while artificial intelligence holds potential benefits, it should not come at the expense of public health. He emphasized that harming the health of Black communities for the sake of innovation will not be tolerated.

Turbine Operations and Emissions

A central concern revolves around the gas turbines utilized by xAI to power Colossus. The company has submitted an application to continue operating 15 of these turbines.

However, the NAACP alleges that authorities have permitted xAI to operate at least 35 turbines without the necessary permits over the past year. Previously, city officials indicated that permits were not required during the turbines’ initial year of operation.

These turbines are reported to release hazardous air pollutants, including formaldehyde, at levels that surpass Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) limits. The NAACP’s letter also highlights the turbines’ nitrogen-oxide emissions.

Environmental Justice Concerns

The Colossus facility is situated near the Boxtown neighborhood in South Memphis, a historically Black community. The NAACP argues this location continues a pattern of industries disproportionately impacting communities that did not create the pollution.

The organization points out that cancer risks in the area are already four times the national average. They criticize the Shelby County Health Department for allowing xAI to operate outside of regulatory compliance instead of working to mitigate existing health issues.

Letter Recipients and Ongoing Developments

The NAACP’s letter was addressed to Michelle Taylor, Director of the Shelby County Health Department, and the commissioners of Memphis Light Gas and Water. Notably, Taylor is transitioning to a new role as the commissioner of the Baltimore City Health Department.

TechCrunch has contacted xAI for a response. A spokesperson for Memphis Light Gas and Water confirmed to NBC News that they had not yet received the NAACP’s letter.

This article has been updated to include a statement from NAACP CEO Derrick Johnson.