July 3, 2025:
xAI Secures Permits Amid Legal Threats - xAI has secured permits for 15 natural gas generators at its Memphis data center, allowing it to legally produce up to 247 megawatts. Previously, the company operated 35 unpermitted generators. Despite receiving these permits, xAI faces ongoing legal threats from the Southern Environmental Law Center (SELC) over Clean Air Act violations.
Concerns persist over pollution levels, with the SELC questioning air quality testing methods and the county's regulatory actions. The permit allows significant emissions, and xAI is required to maintain emissions records. Community and city-led air quality studies face scrutiny over their methodology, with the SELC set to sue.
