Stephan Pacholok

Stephan's legal expertise spans the intricate world of commercial financing, where he adeptly navigates debt and project financing, acquisition financing, asset-based lending, and the nuances of transactional work. Both lenders and borrowers benefit from his guidance through diverse banking transactions. His proficiency extends to project development, corporate mergers, and acquisitions, with a particular focus on the dynamic sectors of renewable energy, electrical power, and technology.

Before his tenure at Blakes, Stephan honed his skills at another prominent national law firm, laying the groundwork for his specialized practice.

His portfolio includes significant contributions to the renewable energy sector, such as facilitating the sale of a substantial 150 MW solar development project in Central Alberta. Stephan's versatility is also evident in his role in securing a C$407.5-million loan for a Crown corporation, aimed at expanding irrigable land in Alberta, and in guiding a Canadian consulting engineering firm through a cross-border merger with a U.S. counterpart.

His transactional expertise was pivotal in the C$75-million acquisition of a Canadian tax software developer by an accounting platform, and in a leading technology company's C$70-million purchase of a Canadian software developer. Stephan's negotiation skills shone through in arranging a behind-the-meter power purchase agreement for a manufacturing company, and in advising an energy company on the restructuring of a C$2-billion refinery.

Moreover, Stephan played a key role in the amalgamation of two renewable energy technology accelerators, demonstrating his commitment to fostering innovation in the renewable energy sector. His work in negotiating and managing power purchase agreements for various wind, solar, and battery storage projects underscores his comprehensive understanding of the energy market's evolving landscape.

As a member of the Canadian Bar Association, Stephan's professional activities extend beyond his client work, contributing to the legal community's knowledge base. His co-authored article on the evolution of Canada's carbon markets in the Alberta Law Review illustrates his keen insight into the intersection of environmental policy and commercial law.

With an academic background that includes a JD from the University of Victoria and a BSc from the University of Alberta, Stephan's education has equipped him with a solid foundation in both the sciences and the law, enabling him to approach complex legal challenges with a unique perspective.

For businesses navigating the complexities of commercial financing or embarking on mergers and acquisitions in the energy and technology sectors, Stephan's expertise offers a strategic advantage, ensuring transactions are executed efficiently and with a clear focus on advancing his clients' long-term strategic goals.