Using renewable energy sources is one of the crucial components of the sustainable development, giving rational economic, ecological and social effects. Developed countries notice the necessity of emission reduction from combustion of energy fuels processes and the necessity of seeking alternative energy resources. Support for development of the use of renewable energy sources became a very important objective within the European Union. In this article the present state and perspectives of using renewable energy sources in Poland are depicted as well as the main tools for promoting their development and utilization.