At present, the energy from renewable sources is an important element of the sustainable development strategy of the European Union (strategy covering the period until 2020). The article presents the role of renewable energy in the structure of primary energy sources and total energy production. In order to evaluate the present-day role of the renewable energy sector, specific European Union states were analysed, with particular focus on Poland, the country whose results were juxtaposed with the average ratios established for the EU-28. A detailed analysis of the current facts was performed (also a forecast for the period running up to 2020 was made), where particular energy sources were distinguished in the renewable energy production structure. A special role among renewable energy sources was ascribed to solar energy, wind energy, hydropower, geothermal energy, biogases and biofuels. The conclusions drawn from the research point out to the fact that the development of renewable energy in Poland is growing slowly but surely. In 2011, the share was at 9.5% and by 2015 it grew to 11.8%, with the target set for 2020 being at the level of 15.0%. The production of energy from renewable sources is improving (from 7.5 to 8.1 Mtoe). Nevertheless, the share of primary energy obtained from renewable energy sources in the total primary energy is less than half of the EU share. The data showcase that the projected aim is likely to be achieved; however, the few years to come should envisage some intensification of activities oriented to this goal. Biomass now enjoys the dominant role but its significance is gradually waning, which favours wind energy and biofuels. The projected directions of renewable energy development indicate that this sector is going to be a significant factor in implementing the sustainable development policy in the years to come.
ROLE OF RENEWABLE ENERGY SECTOR IN SPECIFIC EUROPEAN UNION STATES, WITH PARTICULAR FOCUS ON POLAND