Residents in Southaven, Mississippi, protested an environmental permit for Elon Musk’s xAI to operate 41 natural gas turbines to power its data center complex in the Memphis area, Mississippi Today reported. The Southern Environmental Law Center and Earthjustice threatened to sue on behalf of the NAACP, alleging the power plant violates the federal Clean Air Act.
Despite concerns over environmental impacts, Mississippi benefits from the expansion of data centers, with five projects underway and potential others in development. The artificial intelligence boom has increased demand for skilled construction workers, such as electricians and HVAC technicians. A recent bill passed by the state House aims to fund training programs to meet this need.
Meanwhile, Mississippi’s alcohol industry faces supply issues as the state-run ABC warehouse struggles with a backlog of wine and liquor deliveries. Some businesses worry about losing customers due to shortages, which account for about 1.5% of the state’s tax revenue in 2025. Officials expect it will take another month to clear the backlog.
In economic development, Spartan Composites plans to invest $49 million in Lee County, creating 45 jobs. Texas-based Firehawk Aerospace will establish operations in Lowndes County with a $16.5 million investment and 100 new jobs, according to reports.
Readers are encouraged to share their thoughts on data centers, manufacturing, or wine, and to connect about vibe coding at marketplace@mississippitoday.org.
Jon Ross Myers is the executive editor and publisher of the Mississippi News Network, Mississippi's largest digital only media company. He can be reached at editor@tippahnews.com
