Deadline:
September 30, 2026
Program Starts: January 06, 2027
Program Ends: January 13, 2027
Location(s)
United Arab Emirates
Abu Dhabi
Overview
Details
Under the theme "Youth Energising the Future: Grids, Storage and Flexibility for Renewable Energy Systems", this year's Forum will explore how young people are advancing grid modernisation, energy storage and system flexibility to integrate higher shares of renewables and expand reliable energy access worldwide.
Objectives
The Forum aims to:
- Amplify youth voices in global energy and climate policy.
- Build youth understanding of grid infrastructure, storage technologies and system flexibility, and the policy and regulatory frameworks that enable them.
- Foster capacity building and skills development, enabling youth to design and scale impactful solutions.
- Highlight youth roles in financing the energy transition, exploring how young innovators can access capital.
- Strengthen partnerships between youth, governments, the private sector, academia, and international organisations.
Programme Highlights
- 6-7 January: IRENA Youth Forum (Abu Dhabi) – including High-Level Opening and interactive workshops.
- 8 January: Closing Session during the Seventeenth IRENA Assembly (St. Regis Saadiyat Island).
- 9-13 January Youth-led Activities: Youth Booth and Lounge (St. Regis) and IRENA Pavilion at Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADNEC).
Opportunity is About
Eligibility
Candidates should be from:
Description of Ideal Candidate
Who Can Apply?
The Forum is open to young people aged 18–35 at the time of the Forum who are:
- Actively engaged in renewable energy, sustainability, innovation, or related fields.
- Leading or contributing to projects, startups, research, or advocacy initiatives that advance the energy transition.
- Motivated to collaborate with peers and partners to scale impact globally.
Applications are welcome from all countries around the world. Selection will take into account geographic and gender balance, as well as demonstrated commitment to the energy transition. All applications must be submitted in English.
Dates
Deadline: September 30, 2026
Program starts:
January 06, 2027
Program ends:
January 13, 2027
Program Starts: January 06, 2027
Program Ends: January 13, 2027
Cost/funding for participants
Support for Selected Participants
Up to 40 participants will be selected for fully funded participation, covering travel, accommodation and visa support. There is no application or participation fee.
Additional participants will be invited to participate on partial funded or self funded basis.
Un-save Opportunity
Internships, scholarships, student conferences and competitions.
