MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Elon Musk’s xAI supercomputer site in Memphis continues to be a contentious topic of discussion, but now, a new report suggests the project could be breaking federal law.

It’s all over the use of methane gas turbines.

A permit has been filed for xAI to bring in 15 turbines, but now we’re learning the site is already using double the amount and didn’t even notify the health department.

“This is a company that is treating our community with disrespect and have no regard for our public health. We are in the midst and have been living through a public health crisis. Our families are dying. Our children have the most asthma attacks in our entire state. Our children miss more school than anybody else because of asthma-related and respiratory issues,” said Keshaun Pearson with Memphis Community Against Pollution.

Pearson referred to a new report from a coalition of conservation and community organizations. The report cites new aerial photos that appear to show the xAI supercomputer has nearly doubled the number of turbines at its South Memphis data center.

“xAI is using 35, 35 methane gas burning turbines. They have submitted a permit to our Shelby County Health Department for 15, yet they are using over double that amount with no permit,” Pearson said.

They’re urging the health department to take action because they say it violates the Clean Air Act.

On Wednesday, Pearson along with many other community members of the Boxtown and 38109 area of the city voiced their concerns, urging Shelby County Commissioners to take action.

“We have fought to walk in our communities without having to pay us out. And first of all, we had to hear about this facility through the grapevine. We didn’t get any information. We haven’t had a public hearing, a public meeting, and we supposed to accept this? We are three, three miles away from the xAI,” said resident Sarah Gladney.

Many were upset that the xAI Representative Brent Mayo was not in attendance as previously stated.

“As Brent Mayo’s absence highlights the company and its owner Elon Musk have no appetite for or interest in hearing from the community members most affected by xAI’s toxic and harmful presence,” said Kristine Fox, a concerned resident.

During the meeting, we also learned that the health department’s official public comment meeting has now been scheduled. It will take place on April 25 at Fairley High School.

WREG reached out to xAI and the Greater Memphis Chamber who announced the supercomputer back in June 2024. We are waiting to hear back.

We will continue to keep you updated as we learn more.