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This article is a contribution to the deepening o f analytical knowledge about the development ofthe world energy trends and the strengths and weaknesses o f development o f the energy sector in the Czech Republic. Attention is focused on the following questions: What long-term trends are prevailing in the structure o f production, consumption and efficient utilization o f energy resources in the world and in the Czech Republic? What are the opportunities fo r growth versus the risks o f development o f the power industry in the long term? By analyzing the positions o f the Czech Republic in an international comparison, thefollowing weaknesses in the Czech Republic were identified: high energy intensity ofthe economy, highprices o f energy resources, excessive subsidies fo r renewable energy, and the obsolescence o f the production and distribution system. Among the strengths o f the power industry, there is: a relatively low import demand, high export o f electricity, interconnection o f energy networks, and availability o f electricity in remote areas. Based on the principle o f the necessary diversification o f energy sources, the article concludes that the preferable structure o f the power industry is such based on a balanced ratio o f gas, liquid, solid and renewable sources. The arguments fo r this priority rest on strengthening the security in energy supply. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]