SpaceX is dropping the cost of a monthly plan by 50% in Memphis, Tennessee, as the company faces growing opposition to its data center operations in the region.
The deal will see new users enjoy Starlink services for between $27.50 and $65 per month, depending on the plan they choose. However, a deal with Starlink might not be the solution those in the community are looking for, as opposition continues to grow.
xAI started construction on Colossus 1 in 2024 and began operations in July 2024, with the main computing power devoted to training X’s AI chatbot, Grok. Although the facility was quick to set up, xAI faced significant power constraints, as only 8 MW was available from conventional power hookups. To help power the facility, xAI purchased 35 portable natural gas turbines to meet the additional power required to run it.
Because the units were portable, xAI circumvented many existing EPA regulations that would have limited local pollution. This is where the issues began, and community and environmental groups were quick to seek injunctions and organize against the facility. A lawsuit was filed by the NAACP citing pollution violations, which is currently working its way through the court system.
For SpaceX, the company is exploring other solutions, including using recycled wastewater to cool the facility, but progress has been slow. In the meantime, Colossus 1 and Colossus 2 will continue to be cooled by natural gas turbines around the clock.
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