A novel method for the robust identification of interpretable fuzzy models, based on the criterion that identification errors are least sensitive to data uncertainties and modelling errors, is suggested. The robustness of identification errors towards unknown disturbances (data uncertainties, modelling errors, etc.) is achieved by bounding (i.e. minimizing) the maximum possible value of energy-gain from disturbances to the identification errors. The solution of energy-gain bounding problem, being robust, shows an improved performance of the identification method. The flexibility of the proposed framework is shown by designing the variable learning rate identification algorithms in both deterministic and stochastic frameworks. (c) 2006 Elsevier Ltd. All fights reserved.