Mississippi regulators have unanimously approved xAI's permit to operate 41 gas turbines in Southaven, despite vocal opposition from residents who moved to the area seeking peace and quiet. The turbines, located just two-tenths of a mile from homes, power xAI's supercomputer that trains the company's chatbot, Grok.

The approval came after more than 250 residents attended a public hearing to voice concerns about noise pollution, which they describe as resembling roaring jet engines. xAI installed a $7 million sound wall earlier this year, but residents like Demetri Carter say the noise remains intolerable. The company has also purchased land for a third data center in Southaven.

This controversy reflects a broader backlash against data centers nationwide, as communities grapple with the trade-offs between economic development and quality of life. Southaven, a city of nearly 60,000 in a politically conservative county, now joins other communities questioning the rapid expansion of AI infrastructure. Environmental groups have filed legal challenges, citing potential air quality violations and health impacts, while state officials emphasize the economic benefits of xAI's investment in Mississippi.