A questionnaire survey on the possession of electric appliances and on its influence upon the energy consumption in Japanese households was conducted in 1996. It was found that the increase in the consumption of residential electricity was due to the use of higher number of electric appliances. This reflects the higher economic status of the householders and their lifestyle. The relationship between electric consumption for lighting and others and the influencing factor is evaluated by using the multivariate analysis. The results of this study are expected to provide fundamental information in order to enhance residents' awareness on the importance of energy conservation. It is also expected that the results will be helpful for Asian developing countries. (C) 2004 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.