In this episode of Change Builders, we sat down with Danielle and Josh Knight, the team behind Shining Knight Construction, a family-owned building company that has been serving Nanaimo for more than 16 years.

From bathroom renovations to full custom homes, Shining Knight has built a reputation for thoughtful construction, strong trade partnerships, and a commitment to guiding clients through increasingly complex building requirements, especially when it comes to energy efficiency.

As energy codes evolve and affordability remains top of mind, we asked them: how do you balance sustainability with budget in real-world projects?

A Full-Service Builder in a Changing Industry

Shining Knight Construction is a licensed residential builder offering:

• Custom new home construction
• Major renovations
• Secondary suites and conversions
• HVAC and mechanical upgrades
• Full-service project management

With experience across both renovations and new builds, Danielle and Josh see firsthand how energy efficiency conversations differ depending on the project and the client.

Are Clients Asking for Energy Efficiency?

The answer? Sometimes.

Josh explained that some clients come in with very specific performance goals. Others may not even be aware of Step Code requirements or how energy efficiency affects their build.

“Sometimes clients know exactly what they want,” Danielle added. “And sometimes they don’t know anything about Step Code or energy efficiency, so we need to educate them.”

In many cases, energy requirements are driven by code — particularly for new construction. Higher-performing windows, improved insulation, and upgraded heating systems are no longer optional. Builders must meet the standard, and then help clients understand why.

Education Is a Big Part of the Job

For clients unfamiliar with energy requirements, Shining Knight walks them through a collaborative process that includes:

• Working with designers
• Consulting energy advisors
• Reviewing HVAC options with mechanical contractors
• Comparing system performance and costs

They don’t just present options — they explain benefits, trade-offs, and long-term implications.

Josh noted that resources from CHBA, including Net Zero and Green Builder materials, are helpful in these conversations. But one of the most effective tools is reframing the discussion around comfort.

When homeowners understand that:

• A well-insulated home holds temperature more consistently
• A properly designed HVAC system reduces hot and cold spots
• Improved air filtration enhances indoor air quality

The value becomes tangible — not just theoretical energy savings.

Comfort Often Wins the Conversation

Josh pointed out an important reality: energy-efficient systems don’t always look exciting on paper.

“It’s easier to sell a beautiful kitchen than an HVAC system,” he admitted.

But systems are what make the home perform for decades.

That’s why they emphasize:

• Long-term durability
• Consistent comfort
• Healthier indoor environments
• Lower operating costs over time

And sometimes, that means showing rather than telling — even walking prospective clients through completed projects so they can feel the difference for themselves.

Renovations vs. New Builds: Where Rebates Make a Difference

Energy rebates can significantly influence renovation projects.

When upgrading HVAC systems, for example, clients may qualify for rebates through BC Hydro, FortisBC, or both. These incentives can make higher-efficiency systems far more accessible.

Danielle shared examples including:

• All-electric homes receiving nearly $10,000 in rebates
• A senior client accessing short-term loan support for a secondary suite
• Grant programs that supported accessibility upgrades for aging in place

But navigating rebates isn’t simple. The Shining Knight team often helps clients complete applications, gather documentation, and follow up if more information is required.

“It’s really hard for homeowners to find all that information if they’re not in the industry every day,” Danielle said.

They see education and administrative support as part of their role.

New Construction Incentives? Not Enough.

While renovation rebates can be meaningful, Josh noted that incentives for new construction are limited — especially compared to the rising cost of meeting higher energy standards.

As municipalities enforce stricter window performance and Step Code requirements — even in renovations — upfront costs can increase significantly.

It’s up to the builder to set expectations early and explain:

• Why certain products are required
• How they improve long-term performance
• Where cost increases are coming from

Simplicity Is Key

When asked for one piece of advice for homeowners trying to balance cost, comfort, and performance, Josh didn’t hesitate:

“Simplicity is key.”

That means:

• Keeping design forms efficient
• Avoiding overly complex window walls
• Choosing proven HVAC systems
• Working with trades experienced in those systems
• Prioritizing quality over unnecessary features

On Vancouver Island, the climate is well-suited to high-performing heat pump systems that can heat and cool effectively with minimal reliance on auxiliary heat.

With proper maintenance, a well-installed HVAC system can last 20–25 years, delivering consistent comfort and efficiency throughout its lifespan.

What Does the Future Hold?

Looking ahead five to ten years, Josh believes we’re moving toward homes that are effectively Net Zero Ready — where adding solar could offset most or all grid consumption.

But he also cautions that the pace of change could impact affordability if not managed carefully.

As municipalities begin enforcing stricter requirements — not just for new builds, but also for renovations — builders and homeowners alike will need to adapt.

The key will be communication, planning, and collaboration across the entire project team.

Supply Chains and Skilled Trades

While COVID-era supply chain disruptions created challenges, the Knights feel that those pressures have largely stabilized.

With strong planning, good communication, and established supplier relationships, contractors shouldn’t need to compromise energy performance due to shortages — as long as projects are organized properly.

Learn More About Shining Knight Construction

If you’d like to connect with Danielle and Josh or explore their work, you can find them at:

shiningknight.ca

On their website, you’ll find:

• Estimator tools for new builds, carriage homes, and renovations
• Testimonials and project galleries
• Monthly newsletters
• Industry-focused blog posts
• Easy contact forms to start the conversation

They’re also active on Instagram and Facebook, where they regularly share project updates and building insights.

At the heart of Shining Knight Construction’s approach is a commitment to clarity: helping homeowners understand not just what they’re building, but how it will perform — and why that matters.

In a world of evolving codes and rising expectations, that kind of guidance may be one of the most valuable services a builder can offer.