Member Spotlight

Paul Nelson Keyes

“I found my community and my people through my work with BuildGreenCT.”

Tell us about your company.

The GreenfootPrint is a full-service clean energy and sustainability consulting firm that helps clients uncover hidden profit margins in their buildings through strategic energy efficiency upgrades. By combining deep technical expertise with a thorough understanding of local, state, federal, and utility programs, the firm guides both new construction and existing buildings through comprehensive energy improvements. Their team handles all administrative and managerial aspects of incentive participation, making the process seamless for clients. Services include energy modeling, EV design and development, solar forensics, field testing and verification, and integrating financial and economic analysis with sustainable solutions — all aligned with the client’s goals.

What is your role in sustainability?

I’ve been actively involved in the sustainable built environment for the past 18 years. My passion for sustainability was sparked in my early 30s while attending college as a working adult, during a Business Ethics course where I read The Sustainable Economy. From that moment, I knew I had found my purpose. At GreenfootPrint, our role in sustainability is deeply mission-driven—we focus on integrating economic and financial benefits into every partnership, with a strong emphasis on education and empowerment. We’ve worked with communities across Connecticut to engage, promote, and collaborate with both industry leaders and the public.

What’s your Why?

While working with the nonprofit New Ecology, I was invited by Tom Nichols to get involved with the former CT Green Building Council. I accepted and was honored to serve three consecutive terms, eventually becoming co-chair of the sponsorship committee—a role I’ve held for the past six years alongside my incredible co-chair and powerhouse partner, Ilona Prosol.

BuildGreenCT has been an invaluable resource for me and my company, offering deep connections, knowledgeable members, and dedicated sponsorship partners. I found my community and my people through my work with BuildGreenCT.

Projects You’re Proud Of 

Cadence on Canal, completed in January 2025, is a mixed-use development in New Haven featuring 176 rental apartments—including over 50 affordable units—alongside ground floor retail and parking.

Developer:
RJ Development

Project: The Cadence on Canal
Location 222 Canal Street
New Haven, CT

Notables;
New Haven Chamber of Commerce Developer Investor Honoree
2025 Multi-Family Mixed Use Project Team Award from the Connecticut Building Congress

Building Characteristics:
126 Units Market Rate
50 Units Affordable
HERS Score of 49
Advanced Air-Sealing
Energy Efficient Appliances
Energy Efficient HVAC
Grade I Insulation
(10) EV Chargers
ECOBEE Wireless Thermostats

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Springside Homes in Middletown, CT is a 256-unit, all-electric market-rate development featuring advanced energy efficiency measures—including HERS scores of 40–49, heat pumps, EV chargers, and high-performance insulation—designed to meet Tier I and II energy targets.

Developer:
Newfield Partners

Project: Springside Homes
Location 1100 Springside Lane
Middletown, CT

Notables;
Eversource All Electric Building

Building Characteristics:
256 Units Market Rate
HERS Score of 40-49
Achieved Tier I and II Targets
Advanced Air-Sealing
Energy Efficient Appliances
Energy Efficient HVAC
Grade I Insulation
EV Chargers
ECOBEE Wireless Thermostats
All Electric Heating and Cooling Heat Pump
High Efficiency Electric Hot Water Heat Pumps

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What motivates you?

I find inspiration and motivation in the challenge of doing what’s cutting edge—what others might see as unimaginable.

I’ve always been fascinated by tools and technology, so stepping into this field felt like a natural progression.

My earliest examples of leadership, dedication, and work ethic came from my parents. Their wisdom shaped how I approach everything, both personally and professionally. And believe me, I heard their lessons every single day. A few that have stuck with me are these three.

“A lazy man works the hardest.”
“If you don’t bend down to pick up a penny you’ll never have a dollar.”
“Leave a place better than you found it.”

What are your hobbies? 

My hobbies are wide-ranging, but they all center around being active and connected: to nature, to people, and to the moment. I love fly fishing, golfing, canoeing, crabbing. Pretty much anything outdoors. I’m also passionate about building long-term relationships and diving into a good book while traveling. But cooking is where it all comes together for me. It’s truly my love language. It blends science, timing, coordination, experimentation, and a desire to create something meaningful. Just like the work I do every day.
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Fun Fact:

I love to surprise people and bring them joy! I throw epic parties. I also enjoy creating new experiences with my family.