DOJ Backs xAI's 57 Turbines in NAACP Lawsuit as Grok Supports Iran Strike Operations
Updated
Updated · TechCrunch · Jun 16
DOJ Backs xAI's 57 Turbines in NAACP Lawsuit as Grok Supports Iran Strike Operations
3 articles · Updated · TechCrunch · Jun 16
Summary
A Justice Department filing backed xAI against the NAACP's bid to halt dozens of unpermitted gas turbines near its Memphis-area data centers, arguing a shutdown would threaten U.S. national, economic and energy security.
The memo said Grok is one of four AI models used in mission-critical military operations, including recent strikes in Iran, tying the power dispute directly to Pentagon-linked AI demand.
xAI has expanded the trailer-mounted turbine fleet to 57 after earlier efforts to stop it failed, while claiming the units are temporarily exempt from Mississippi air-pollution rules because they remain mobile.
The NAACP and Southern Environmental Law Center argue federal law can still treat those turbines as stationary sources, and say pollution around the already heavily burdened area has risen with increases in PM2.5, formaldehyde and nitrogen oxides.
SpaceX's IPO filing suggests the fight will grow: its xAI division plans to buy $2.8 billion of gas turbines over three years, including at least $2 billion in mobile units.
Can AI's immense energy needs be met without sacrificing clean air and public health?
When national security relies on AI, who decides the environmental price communities must pay?
Powering AI, Polluting Communities: The xAI Data Center Legal Showdown and Its National Implications
Overview
xAI's rapid expansion of its data center operations in Southaven, Mississippi, began with the 2025 acquisition of local properties by MZX Tech LLC, a company linked to xAI. This led to the development of the Colossus 2 data center, powered by 41 gas turbines. Environmental groups and the Southern Environmental Law Center warned that this would create one of the state's largest fossil fuel power plants, increasing pollution and health risks for nearby communities. The aggressive build-out sparked strong community opposition and legal challenges, highlighting the tension between technological growth, environmental protection, and public health.