IRENA Youth Forum 2027 in UAE

The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) invites young leaders worldwide to apply for its 2027 Youth Forum, marking the eighth edition of this flagship platform for youth empowerment and intergenerational dialogue. This fully funded opportunity brings together young changemakers to shape the global energy transition agenda on the margins of the IRENA Assembly in Abu Dhabi, UAE.

What the Forum Offers

Selected participants receive comprehensive support to attend this prestigious event. The fully funded package covers round-trip travel, accommodation, and visa support for up to 40 young leaders. Additional participants may receive partial funding or attend on a self-funded basis. No application or participation fees apply, making this opportunity accessible to passionate young people from all backgrounds.

Forum Theme and Focus

Under the theme “Youth Energising the Future: Grids, Storage and Flexibility for Renewable Energy Systems,” the 2027 Forum explores how young people can advance grid modernisation, energy storage, and system flexibility to integrate higher shares of renewables worldwide. Participants engage in high-level opening sessions, interactive workshops, and youth-led activities during Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week.

The programme runs from 6–13 January 2027, featuring:

• 6-7 January: Youth Forum including opening and interactive workshops
• 8 January: Closing session during the Seventeenth IRENA Assembly
• 9-13 January: Youth-led activities at the IRENA Pavilion and Youth Booth

Objectives and Impact

The Forum aims to amplify youth voices in global energy and climate policy while building understanding of grid infrastructure, storage technologies, and enabling policy frameworks. Participants develop skills to design and scale impactful solutions, explore financing mechanisms for the energy transition, and strengthen partnerships with governments, the private sector, academia, and international organisations.

Eligibility Requirements

The Forum is open to young people aged 18–35 who are actively engaged in renewable energy, sustainability, innovation, or related fields. Ideal candidates lead or contribute to projects, startups, research, or advocacy initiatives advancing the energy transition. Applications come from all countries, with selection considering geographic and gender balance alongside demonstrated commitment to the energy transition. All applications must be submitted in English.

How to Apply

Interested applicants must complete the expression of interest online by 30 September 2026 (midnight, Abu Dhabi local time). Successful candidates receive notification by 15 November 2026. 

CLICK HERE TO APPLY ONLINE

This summit provides an unparalleled platform for young leaders passionate about renewable energy to engage with global decision-makers, build international networks, and contribute to solutions powering our sustainable future.

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