League tables on gas and electricity consumption have been published

The analysis compared, for the first time, energy consumption in England's nine regions and in Scotland and Wales during 2003.

The average gas used by Scottish households in one year was 20,540kWh - only 2% above the national average.

Officials said smaller homes and more flats could explain consumption rates.

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) figures showed the highest rates of gas consumption were in East Renfrewshire, East Dunbartonshire and Stirling where the average was about 25,000kWh.

These three areas have the highest average earnings in Scotland and some of the largest homes.

The lowest rates of consumption were in Eilean Siar (the Western Isles), an average of 17,280kWh per household.

Energy Minister Malcolm Wicks said collecting figures at a local level was vital for developing policy.

"We probably all have a rough idea which parts of the country are colder than others, which tend to be more affluent, maybe which have better housing," he said.

Having a proper idea of variations in consumption and the reasons behind it at the local level is increasingly vital Malcolm Wicks Energy Minister

"But this analysis shows us for the first time a picture of the impact these factors have on the levels of gas and electricity used.

"As we seek to ensure adequate energy supplies for the future, to reduce damaging carbon emissions and to improve the plight of those still living in fuel poverty, having a proper idea of variations in consumption and the reasons behind it at the local level is increasingly vital."

Scottish electricity consumption was 5% above the national average, reflecting lower rates of access to the gas network.

Electricity consumption was highest (about 7000kWh) in the Orkney Islands and Shetland Islands where there is no gas network.