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xAI’s “Colossus” supercomputer raises health questions in Memphis


Elon Musk's AI startup xAI plans to continue using 15 gas turbines to power its "Colossus" supercomputer in Memphis, Tennessee, according to an operating

Elon Musk’s AI startup xAI plans to continue using 15 gas turbines to power its “Colossus” supercomputer in Memphis, Tennessee, according to an operating permit with the Shelby County Health Department for non-stop turbine use from June 2025 to June 2030. The Commercial Appeal, a news outlet that obtained the documents, observes that environmental concerns have emerged, as the 20-year-old turbines emit hazardous air pollutants (HAP), including formaldehyde, at levels exceeding the EPA’s 10-ton annual cap for a single source. (Per the story, the facility’s operating permit self-reports that the turbines each emit 11.51 tons of HAP per year.)

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