xAI installs eight converted jet-engine turbines to power its Mississippi data centre
The New York Times reports the state-permitted turbines, converted by ProEnergy from GE engines and rated at up to 50 MW each, carry a 25% higher limit for volatile organic compounds, and the Southern Environmental Law Center has challenged the approval.
Why it matters
Power is the binding constraint on AI build-outs, and repurposed aircraft engines are one of the fastest ways to get on-site generation. xAI already faces a separate NAACP Clean Air Act suit over gas turbines that a judge refused to dismiss last week, and the Southern Environmental Law Center says xAI undercounted projected emissions, including formaldehyde. Musk said in August that xAI would increase its data centre capacity sevenfold before the end of 2027. Watch the outcome of the permit challenge.
Key facts
- Eight converted jet-engine turbines
- Up to 50 MW per turbine
- Converted by ProEnergy from GE engines
- 25% higher limit for volatile organic compounds
- Southern Environmental Law Center challenged the approval