SpaceX has begun construction of a new power plant designed to supply energy to the Colossus data centers owned by xAI. Despite commencing work on these new energy capacities, the company does not plan to dismantle the already installed turbines, which were erected without the necessary permits, in the near future.
According to available data, the process of removing these unauthorized structures will take a significant amount of time. The complete elimination of the turbines lacking official approval is not expected for at least another year or possibly later, creating a situation where new and old energy facilities coexist at the same site.
The current state of affairs highlights the complexity of coordinating the rapid deployment of infrastructure for artificial intelligence with compliance to regulatory norms. While the new station comes online, the old turbines remain part of the landscape despite their legal status.
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Why it matters
The most likely outcome is the continued operation of the controversial facilities until the new station reaches full capacity. The next observable signal will be either an official statement from regulators regarding fines or the completion of the new power plant's construction. The main uncertainty remains the exact date for the start of physical demolition.