NAACP Takes Action: Lawsuit Against Musk for Environmental Harm in Memphis

Since June 2024, xAI, Elon Musk's technology venture, has been operating a significant data hub named Colossus in South Memphis, which supplies power to its chatbot Grok. This facility is fueled by numerous methane-burning turbines—reportedly up to 35—operating without the necessary permits. Despite widespread community protests, xAI has made minimal adjustments to its operations. Consequently, the NAACP alongside the Southern Environmental Law Center plans to initiate legal action against Musk for alleged violations of the Clean Air Act. NAACP President Derrick Johnson highlighted the tendency of large corporations to disregard community concerns, asserting that such environmental inequities are unacceptable. Attorney Patrick Anderson, who is preparing the case, noted xAI's ongoing addition of turbines, indicating a lack of accountability. While the recent complaint is not a lawsuit, it paves the way for one pending a 60-day resolution window. The complaint articulates four claims related to pollution levels and regulatory compliance, underscoring the urgency of addressing this issue in a predominantly Black neighborhood.