tech
SpaceX won’t remove all of xAI’s unpermitted turbines for another year
SpaceX is building a new power plant for xAI's Colossus data centers, but it won't remove existing, unpermitted turbines for many more months.
TL;DR
- SpaceX will remove unpermitted turbines powering xAI data centers near Memphis.
- The transition is part of building a permanent 1.2 gigawatt natural gas power plant.
- Complete removal of the turbines is scheduled for July 2027.
- SpaceX is currently operating 69 gas turbines for the Colossus data centers.
- The NAACP and Southern Environmental Law Center have sued xAI over the use of unpermitted turbines.
- SpaceX claims turbines are exempt from permits because they remain on trailers.
- Federal regulations state these turbines require permits due to their size and usage.
- The Department of Justice sided with SpaceX, citing national, economic, and energy security.
- The new power plant will consist of 41 gas turbines.
- Elon Musk previously acquired APR Energy, which specializes in temporary natural gas power.
- Turbines from APR Energy are likely intended for an unannounced project, not the new permanent plant.