Elon Musk's xAI operates 46 gas turbines in Mississippi without pollution permits

Elon Musk's xAI is operating nearly 50 natural gas turbines at its data center in Mississippi, exploiting a regulatory loophole that classifies them as 'mobile' because they sit on flatbed trailers, exempting them from air pollution regulations for one year. The NAACP has filed a lawsuit on behalf of local residents, arguing that unchecked emissions worsen air quality in an already polluted region. This week, the NAACP requested an injunction against xAI. The Southern Environmental Law Center, representing the NAACP, contends the turbines violate federal law, which states that power plants mounted on trailers can still be considered stationary and subject to regulations. xAI has permits for 15 turbines. A Greater Memphis Chamber of Commerce press release in May 2025 indicated that 'about half' of the 35 turbines then operating would remain on site, but xAI has continued to install more, now operating 46 according to local news.