The IRENA Youth Forum 2026 is now open for applications, inviting young leaders from around the globe to participate in this premier event hosted by the International Renewable Energy Agency. As the eighth edition of IRENA’s flagship platform, the forum focuses on empowering youth, fostering intergenerational dialogue, and driving innovation in renewable energy.
This year’s theme, “Youth Innovation and Digital Solutions: From AI to Access in Renewable Energy,” highlights how emerging technologies and innovative business models are transforming the renewable energy landscape. The IRENA Youth Forum 2026 will unite youth leaders, policymakers, industry experts, and partners to collaboratively develop inclusive and sustainable solutions for the global energy transition.
Benefits
Selected participants will:
- Gain direct exposure to the global renewable energy policy arena.
- Network with high-level decision makers, innovators, and peers from across the world.
- Co-develop the Youth Forum Outcome Statement, presented at the Seventeenth IRENA Assembly.
- Access opportunities to join IRENA’s broader youth initiatives, including the NewGen Renewable Energy Accelerator and the Energy Transition Education Network.
Eligibility Criteria
IRENA welcomes expression of Interest to apply from young people passionate about renewable energy. Applicants will be notified of their application status by 15 November 2025. Selection will consider geographical and gender balanced representation.
Below are some guiding points to help you decide if this opportunity is relevant for you:
- Young people from all over the world can apply to attend the IRENA Youth Forum. Applicants have to be aged at least 16 years old and below 35 years old by the time the Forum takes place.
- Applicants who express high motivation and concrete dedication to renewable energy and just transition are more likely to be selected.
- The IRENA Youth Forum to be held in the margins of the 16th IRENA Assembly in January 2026 will be conducted in English.
- Applicants need to have a valid passport throughout the duration of the Forum.
Requirements for IRENA Youth Forum 2026
- 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.
Programme Highlights
- 8-9 January: IRENA Youth Forum (Abu Dhabi) – including High-Level Opening and interactive workshops.
- 10 January: Closing Session during the Sixteenth IRENA Assembly (St. Regis Saadiyat Island).
- Youth-led Activities: Youth Booth and Lounge (St. Regis) and IRENA Pavilion at Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADNEC).
How to Apply?
- Visit the official application form here: IRENA Youth Forum 2026 Application
- Fill in your personal details accurately, including your full name and contact information
- Share your motivation for joining and highlight any relevant experience in renewable energy or youth leadership
- Upload any required documents such as your CV or recommendation letters, if requested
- Review your application carefully to ensure all information is complete and correct
- Submit your application before the deadline on 30 September 2025
- Watch your email for confirmation and updates about your application status
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The IRENA Youth Forum 2026 is a global event in Abu Dhabi for youth aged 18-35 engaged in renewable energy. It focuses on innovation, digital solutions, and policy dialogue. Applications close on 30 September 2025, offering networking, skill-building, and leadership opportunities.
What is the IRENA Youth Forum 2026?
The IRENA Youth Forum 2026 is the eighth edition of a global platform that empowers youth in renewable energy. It focuses on innovation, intergenerational dialogue, and expanding access to clean energy through digital solutions and AI.
When and where will the IRENA Youth Forum 2026 take place?
The Forum will be held in Abu Dhabi, UAE, on 8-9 January 2026. The closing session will take place on 10 January during the Sixteenth IRENA Assembly at St. Regis Saadiyat Island, with youth activities at Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week.
Who can participate in the IRENA Youth Forum 2026?
Young people aged 18-35 who are actively involved in renewable energy, sustainability, innovation, or related fields can apply. Participants should be engaged in projects, startups, research, or advocacy advancing the energy transition.
What is the theme of the IRENA Youth Forum 2026?
The theme is “Youth Innovation and Digital Solutions: From AI to Access in Renewable Energy.” It highlights how young people use AI, digitalization, and new business models to improve renewable energy access worldwide.
What are the main objectives of the IRENA Youth Forum 2026?
The Forum aims to amplify youth voices in energy policy, build skills for impactful solutions, highlight youth roles in financing the energy transition, and strengthen partnerships among youth, governments, and the private sector.
What activities are included in the IRENA Youth Forum 2026?
Activities include a high-level opening, interactive workshops, youth-led booths and lounges, and participation in the IRENA Pavilion at Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week. The closing session is part of the Sixteenth IRENA Assembly.
What benefits do participants gain from the IRENA Youth Forum 2026?
Participants gain exposure to global renewable energy policy, network with leaders and peers, co-develop the Youth Forum Outcome Statement, and access broader youth initiatives like the NewGen Renewable Energy Accelerator.
How can I apply for the IRENA Youth Forum 2026?
Interested youth must complete an online expression of interest form by 30 September 2025. Applicants should provide personal details, motivation, relevant experience, and any required documents to be considered.
What is the deadline to apply for the IRENA Youth Forum 2026?
The application deadline is 30 September 2025. All interested young people should submit their expression of interest before this date to be eligible for selection.
How does the IRENA Youth Forum 2026 support youth innovation?
The Forum fosters capacity building and skills development, enabling youth to design and scale renewable energy solutions. It also explores how young innovators can access capital and collaborate globally for a just energy transition.
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