Benzinga Rankings give you vital metrics on any stock – anytime. Unlock Rankings 1.27% Elon Musk's artificial intelligence startup xAI has received official approval to operate natural gas-burning turbines at its Memphis-based supercomputer facility, despite community backlash and an ongoing lawsuit over air quality concerns. What Happened: The Shelby County Health Department issued the permit on Wednesday, allowing xAI to operate 15 gas turbines at its Colossus data center, which powers the Grok AI model, reported CNBC. The permit enforces emissions limits and testing requirements, with non-compliance penalties reaching $10,000 per day. Local residents have protested the project for months, citing a strong odor and poor air quality that reportedly worsened after the turbines were activated. The NAACP, represented by the Southern Environmental Law Center, has filed a lawsuit against xAI, claiming the company violated the Clean Air Act.