Based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, James Mahoney is the CEO of Mason James Lighting and Supply, LLC, a company known for distributing high-quality, energy-efficient LED lighting products throughout Pennsylvania. Under his leadership, the company has achieved significant growth and recognition as a top distributor for utilities nationwide. Drawing from years of experience in both lighting and medical device sales, James Mahoney Pittsburgh applies his expertise in innovative lighting to promote smarter energy use. Through his ventures—including Mason James Distribution and Right Light Media—Mr. Mahoney continues to support sustainable practices that align with efforts to help individuals and organizations reduce energy consumption and costs at home and in business.
A Few Tips for Reducing Energy Consumption and Expenses at Home
According to the United States Energy Information Administration (EIA), energy usage in America peaked in 2024 and will hit a new high in 2025. Individuals and families can help minimize energy demand and the use of non-renewables by following a few simple steps to conserve electricity at home.
Power demand reached 4,086 billion kilowatt-hours (kWh) in 2024, up from 4,012 billion kWh the year prior, and EIA experts estimate 2025 energy usage will hit 4,165 kWh. While the US continues to produce more electricity via renewable energy sources each year, fossil fuels and other non-renewable resources account for the lion’s share of US energy production.
One of the simplest steps homeowners can take involves making a few basic changes to their daily routines. Turning off lights and appliances while not in use is arguably the simplest means of conserving energy at home. Individuals can also hang clothes to dry instead of using a dryer, wash dishes by hand, and take on other chores typically performed by appliances.
For some homeowners, adjusting daily behaviors requires a balance between energy conservation and comfort; the most impactful strategy for conserving energy at home involves turning the thermostat down by a few degrees during the cold winter months and minimizing air conditioner use in the summer. Heating and cooling costs account for almost 50 percent of most homeowners’ utility bills, meaning adjusting thermostat and air conditioner usage significantly reduces both energy consumption and electricity costs.
Quality windows and insulation can help with heating and cooling costs by preserving a home’s internal temperature. Window treatments and coverings can prevent heat gain during the summer, while a proper insulation job can help homes retain their heat for longer periods.
Homeowners can further reduce electricity usage by replacing certain appliances and amenities with energy-efficient alternatives. Light bulb technology provides homeowners with many options. Halogen incandescent bulbs, compact fluorescent lights, and light-emitting diode (LED) bulbs can reduce energy consumption by up to 80 percent. These bulbs also last between three and 25 times longer than standard bulbs, further reducing a home’s annual energy costs.
Searching for new light bulbs may feel overwhelming for homeowners seeking to manage their energy consumption. A good starting point involves looking for bulbs with the ENERGY STAR label, a government-backed acknowledgement of energy efficiency. On average, an LED bulb with the ENERGY STAR label produces the same amount of light as an incandescent bulb, while using 90 percent less electricity.
Many home appliances can carry the ENERGY STAR label. Homeowners can further optimize energy usage by investing in smart technology, including smart power strips. Smart appliances offer numerous benefits, including a smart power strip’s ability to reduce phantom energy. Also known as standby or vampire energy, phantom energy describes the electricity used by appliances even when not in use. Some appliances continue to draw energy even when turned off, as long as they remain plugged in.
The US Department of Energy attributes as much as 10 percent of residential energy usage and expenses to phantom energy. Smart power strips limit power consumption by electronics when not in use. Homeowners can use a master device to control smart power strips, also known as advanced power strips, or set them to turn on and off at designated times. Individuals can use similar technology to program smart thermostats.
About James Mahoney Pittsburgh
James Mahoney of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is the CEO of Mason James Lighting and Supply, LLC, a leading distributor of energy-efficient LED lighting products. He also oversees Mason James Distribution and serves as a principal and shareholder of Right Light Media, a Pittsburgh-based outdoor advertising company. With a background in medical device sales and a degree in health policy and administration from Pennsylvania State University, Mr. Mahoney has built multiple successful ventures. He is active in professional associations and supports community efforts focused on ALS research and treatment.
