Expressions of interest are open for the IRENA Youth Forum 2027 - the 8th edition of the International Renewable Energy Agency’s flagship youth platform, held in Abu Dhabi, UAE on the sidelines of the 17th IRENA Assembly.
Under the theme “Youth Energising the Future: Grids, Storage and Flexibility for Renewable Energy Systems”, the Forum runs 6 - 13 January 2027. Up to 40 fully funded participants (travel, accommodation, visa support) will be selected. EOI deadline: 30 September 2026 (midnight Abu Dhabi time).
This Opportunity Station guide is original copy based on the official IRENA announcement. It is not a reprint of any third-party blog.
Quick Facts - IRENA Youth Forum 2027
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Programme | IRENA Youth Forum 2027 (8th edition) |
| Organiser | International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) |
| Location | Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates |
| Dates | 6 - 13 January 2027 |
| Theme | Youth Energising the Future: Grids, Storage and Flexibility for Renewable Energy Systems |
| Age | 18 - 35 at the time of the Forum |
| Funding | Up to 40 fully funded places (travel, accommodation, visa support); partial/self-funded places also possible |
| Application fee | None |
| EOI deadline | 30 September 2026 (midnight, Abu Dhabi local time) |
| Results | By 15 November 2026 |
| Language | Applications in English |
| Official page | IRENA Youth Forum 2027 |
| Apply | Official Microsoft Forms EOI |
What Is the IRENA Youth Forum?
Since 2020, the IRENA Youth Forum has convened young leaders from around the world on the margins of the IRENA Assembly to shape the global energy transition agenda through intergenerational dialogue, innovation, and capacity building.
The 2027 edition focuses on how young people advance grid modernisation, energy storage, and system flexibility - helping integrate higher shares of renewables and expand reliable energy access worldwide.
Forum Objectives
- Amplify youth voices in global energy and climate policy
- Build understanding of grid infrastructure, storage technologies, system flexibility, and enabling policy/regulatory frameworks
- Foster capacity building and skills so youth can design and scale impactful solutions
- Highlight youth roles in financing the energy transition and accessing capital
- Strengthen partnerships between youth, governments, private sector, academia, and international organisations
Programme Highlights
| Date | Activity |
|---|---|
| 6 - 7 January 2027 | IRENA Youth Forum in Abu Dhabi - high-level opening and interactive workshops |
| 8 January 2027 | Closing session during the 17th IRENA Assembly (St. Regis Saadiyat Island) |
| 9 - 13 January 2027 | Youth-led activities - Youth Booth/Lounge (St. Regis) and IRENA Pavilion at Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADNEC) |
Who Should Apply
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 that advance the energy transition
- Motivated to collaborate with peers and partners to scale impact globally
Applications are welcome from all countries. Selection considers geographic and gender balance plus demonstrated commitment to the energy transition. Submit in English.
Funding and Support
- Up to 40 participants selected for fully funded participation - travel, accommodation, and visa support
- No application or participation fee for the EOI
- Additional participants may be invited on a partially funded or self-funded basis
How to Apply
- Read the official overview on the IRENA Youth Forum 2027 page.
- Confirm you will be aged 18 - 35 during the Forum and can show relevant renewable-energy / sustainability engagement.
- Complete the official expression of interest form in English before 30 September 2026 (midnight Abu Dhabi time).
- Watch for results by 15 November 2026.
Questions: contact youth@irena.org.
Key Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| EOI deadline | 30 September 2026 (midnight Abu Dhabi) |
| Notification of results | By 15 November 2026 |
| Forum programme | 6 - 13 January 2027, Abu Dhabi |
Official Links
Apply - IRENA Youth Forum 2027 EOI
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FAQs - IRENA Youth Forum 2027
Is participation fully funded?
Up to 40 selected participants receive full funding (travel, accommodation, visa support). Others may be invited on partial or self-funded terms.
When is the deadline?
30 September 2026 at midnight Abu Dhabi local time.
What is the age range?
18 - 35 at the time of the Forum.
Can applicants from Africa / any country apply?
Yes. Applications are open worldwide; selection considers geographic and gender balance.
Is there an application fee?
No. There is no application or participation fee for the EOI.
Where does the Forum take place?
Abu Dhabi, UAE, alongside the 17th IRENA Assembly and related youth activities during Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week.
