Aleksey Shtivelman, International Litigation & Arbitration partner in Shutts & Bowen LLP’s Miami office, explores where energy, artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure, and space law are starting to overlap in his latest commentary: “Solar Power Satellites and Orbital Data Centers—International Space Law Implications,” published by POWER Magazine.
The article provides an in-depth look at the legal and commercial challenges associated with property rights in space, particularly in geostationary orbit (GEO), and the regulatory complexities of transmitting power to Earth. With the rising demand for data centers and AI computing power, the need for reliable, high-capacity energy sources is accelerating interest in space-based power generation and off-Earth infrastructure. Shtivelman further discusses recent industry developments, including filings and initiatives by private sector companies, such as SpaceX's filings for orbital data centers, and raises legal questions about spectrum allocation, debris mitigation and public interest. These developments raise complex legal questions at the intersection of telecommunications law, energy regulation, national security, and international treaty obligations.
The article highlights that existing space treaties, like the Outer Space Treaty of 1967, are outdated for today's commercial space activities, lacking guidance on data governance, privacy and property rights. The article also emphasizes the need for legal adaptation to keep pace with rapidly evolving space infrastructure. As investment in space-based solar power, orbital data centers, and AI infrastructure accelerates, international space law will play a growing role in shaping global energy and cross-border commerce – particularly in Florida, where proximity to launch infrastructure and Miami’s role as an international disputes hub place it at the center of these developments.
About Aleksey Shtivelman
Aleksey Shtivelman is an International Litigation and Arbitration partner at Shutts & Bowen LLP in Miami. He is Board Certified in International Litigation and Arbitration by The Florida Bar. He represents companies and investors in cross-border disputes, with a focus on energy, power generation, and complex commercial matters. As a native Russian speaker and fluent in Spanish, Aleksey has successfully resolved high-stakes legal disputes for foreign and domestic clients doing business in many jurisdictions, including the United States, Europe, Latin America, Africa, and Asia.