The US Justice Department has made a highly unusual move by urging a federal court to throw out a lawsuit against Elon Musk’s company xAI. The lawsuit, filed by the NAACP, alleges that xAI is operating dozens of gas turbines without air permits or pollution controls in Southaven, Mississippi, to power its data center in Memphis, Tennessee.

Pollution Concerns

The methane gas turbines, located near homes and schools, are known to produce toxic pollutants, including nitrogen oxides, which can cause asthma attacks and chest pain. The Justice Department has argued that the lawsuit threatens American energy and innovation, citing national security considerations.

The move has sparked concerns among environmental law experts, who argue that it could set a precedent that undermines the ability of individuals and communities to sue polluters. The Clean Air Act allows individuals and environmental groups to sue polluters in so-called citizen lawsuits.

Local Impact

The case has significant implications for local communities, particularly in Memphis, where the data center is located. Tennessee State Rep. Justin J. Pearson, a Democrat, has spoken out against the Justice Department’s intervention, saying it is ‘unconscionable’ and seeks to remove any recourse Americans have to protect themselves from harm.

The NAACP’s lawsuit seeks daily fines of around $124,000 for xAI’s alleged pollution infringements and an injunction to stop the turbines operating until permits are secured. xAI has previously said it does not need permits for turbines that are temporary.

Original reporting: KEYT (Ventura/Santa Barbara) — read the source article.