Directions in development of hydropower in the world, in Europe and Poland in the period 1995–2011

The paper presents, on the basis of international statistical data available and own research, the development of hydroenergetics in the world over the period 1995–2011.The energy of flowing water for a number of centuries has been an alternative to energy from fossil fuels. Hydropower can be regarded as a relatively non-invasive to the surrounding environment especially in the form of small hydropower stations, what resulted in great popularity of this segment of the green-energy sector. Next the work presents, in tabular charts, graphs and descriptive parts, the levels of utilization of hydroelectric resources for individual continents and countries. Against this background, the paper describes Polish experiences and plans concerning hydropower.