The Shelby Health Department has issued a permit for 15 xAI turbines in Memphis, but the local community is protesting because of the health risks.

The Shelby County Health Department has approved a permit for the company xAI to operate 15 turbines on a site in Memphis through 2027. The project has sparked protests from Boxtown's African-American community, which is concerned about health risks given high rates of childhood asthma. Although the company claims the turbines are essential to the development of the Colossus supercomputer, environmental organizations plan to sue the company for violations of clean air laws. Information about the exact number of active turbines is contradictory, adding to the confusion.