‘People Power’ vs. a Colossal Calamity: The Birth of xAI’s Data Center Conglomerate in Memphis and Southaven

Abstract

Illegally, in 2024, the world’s wealthiest man’s newest start-up moved in with the imposition of the one of largest data centers to have ever been built. Musk entered unlawfully. His company refused adhere to the Clean Air Act’s mandate to obtain a Prevention of Significant Deterioration (PSD) permit before, during, or after construction. Worse, an incessant need for continued compliance with municipal co-conspirators, which I dub the ‘colossus coalition,’ xAI polluted an area already inundated with toxic air and initiated the evisceration of the people’s sway in the public decision-making processes designed for their protection. Gas turbines fuel the data center in the frenzy to build the facility with speed and market viability. To keep operating Colossus I without the threat of environmental compliance, which threatened to undo the entire endeavor, xAI embarked on dual campaign to spread false propaganda to Memphians, of jobs and environmental stewardship, and capture the will of local elected officials meant to represent the will of the people.