This study sought to determine a methodology for enabling the demand-side management (DSM) technology transfer to developing countries. Readily available economic and social indicators, supported with a more detailed end-use research, were used to decide which technologies were suitable for a given developing country. Case studies were performed in N. Cyprus and Turkey to validate the theory. In N. Cyprus, DSM-technology transfer would be more successful in the residential and commercial sectors, whereas in Turkey it would be more feasible to consider DSM options in the industrial sector. (C) 2003 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.