European Youth Energy Forum (EYEF) 2026 in Nice, France: Applications Open for Students, Young Professionals, and Researchers Driving the Energy Transition

The European Youth Energy Forum (EYEF) 2026 is now accepting applications for its highly anticipated fifth edition, offering an exceptional opportunity for students, young professionals, researchers, and emerging leaders to engage directly in shaping the future of Europe’s energy transition.

Scheduled to take place from 26–29 October 2026 in Nice, France, the forum will bring together some of the brightest young minds from across Europe and the Mediterranean region to exchange ideas, collaborate on solutions, strengthen professional networks, and contribute to discussions that will influence the future of sustainable energy systems.

Organized by the European Youth Energy Network (EYEN), EYEF has become one of Europe’s leading youth platforms dedicated to empowering the next generation of energy professionals and ensuring that youth perspectives are represented in the global energy dialogue.

Applications are open from 11 May to 21 June 2026, and selected participants will embark on a multi-month journey that combines virtual learning, collaboration, and networking activities before culminating in the in-person forum in Nice.

About the European Youth Energy Forum (EYEF)

The European Youth Energy Forum is more than a conference.

It is a youth-driven platform designed to connect ambitious young people who are passionate about energy, climate action, sustainability, innovation, and policy development.

Since its inception, EYEF has provided a unique space where participants can:

• Discuss pressing energy challenges
• Explore innovative solutions
• Learn from industry experts
• Collaborate across disciplines
• Build international partnerships
• Develop leadership skills
• Contribute to Europe’s energy transition agenda

The forum recognizes that young people are not simply future stakeholders in the energy sector—they are already playing critical roles in shaping sustainable energy systems, influencing climate action policies, and advancing innovation across industries.

EYEF 2026 Theme: From Skills to Impact

The 2026 edition of the forum is built around the theme:

“From Skills to Impact: Empowering Young Professionals to Implement the Energy Transition”

This theme reflects a growing recognition that achieving energy transition goals requires more than technical knowledge alone.

It requires:

• Leadership
• Collaboration
• Innovation
• Practical implementation skills
• Cross-sector partnerships
• Youth engagement

The forum seeks to equip participants with the tools, networks, and experiences needed to translate knowledge into real-world impact.

Why EYEF 2026 Matters

Europe is undergoing one of the most significant energy transformations in history.

Countries across the continent are investing heavily in:

• Renewable energy
• Green hydrogen
• Energy efficiency
• Smart grids
• Sustainable mobility
• Climate resilience
• Decarbonization strategies

At the same time, governments, industries, and institutions increasingly recognize the importance of involving young people in decision-making processes.

EYEF serves as a bridge between youth talent and the institutions driving Europe’s energy future.

The forum provides participants with opportunities to:

• Engage with industry experts
• Learn from policymakers
• Connect with researchers
• Collaborate with peers
• Develop innovative solutions

A Unique International Experience

One of the defining features of EYEF is its international and interdisciplinary nature.

The forum welcomes participants from diverse academic and professional backgrounds, creating a rich environment for knowledge sharing and collaboration.

Participants typically represent fields such as:

• Renewable energy
• Engineering
• Environmental sciences
• Climate policy
• Sustainable development
• Economics
• Energy law
• Innovation and entrepreneurship
• Research and academia

This diversity allows participants to explore energy challenges from multiple perspectives and develop more comprehensive solutions.

Building on Collaboration with IRENA

The European Youth Energy Forum continues its collaboration with the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) Youth Forum.

This partnership strengthens connections between regional and global youth energy initiatives and provides participants with greater exposure to international energy discussions.

The collaboration contributes to:

• Global knowledge exchange
• International networking opportunities
• Exposure to renewable energy developments
• Youth participation in global energy governance

What Selected Participants Can Expect

Participants selected for EYEF 2026 will participate in a comprehensive programme that extends beyond the in-person event.

Online Learning Journey

Before arriving in Nice, participants will engage in an online programme running from July to October 2026.

This phase is designed to:

• Introduce key energy transition topics
• Facilitate networking
• Prepare participants for the forum
• Encourage collaborative learning

In-Person Forum in Nice

The in-person event will take place from 26–29 October 2026.

During the forum, participants can expect:

• Interactive workshops
• Expert discussions
• Collaborative sessions
• Networking events
• Team-based activities
• Youth-led initiatives
• Professional development opportunities

Long-Term Network Access

Participants become part of the wider European Youth Energy Network community, providing opportunities for future collaboration and engagement.

Who Should Apply?

EYEF is designed for motivated individuals who are passionate about creating a sustainable energy future.

Ideal applicants include:

Students

University students studying:

• Energy
• Engineering
• Environmental sciences
• Climate studies
• Public policy
• Economics
• Sustainability

Young Professionals

Early-career professionals working in:

• Energy companies
• Utilities
• Government agencies
• NGOs
• Climate organizations
• Research institutions

Researchers

Researchers exploring topics related to:

• Renewable energy
• Climate change
• Energy systems
• Sustainability
• Energy policy

Youth Leaders

Young changemakers involved in:

• Advocacy
• Climate action
• Community engagement
• Youth empowerment

Timeline for EYEF 2026

The forum follows a structured journey that combines preparation, learning, and collaboration.

Applications

11 May – 21 June 2026

Online Programme

July – October 2026

Live Event

26–29 October 2026

Location:
Nice, France

Applicants are encouraged to apply as early as possible due to the expected high level of competition.

About the European Youth Energy Network (EYEN)

The forum is organized by the European Youth Energy Network (EYEN), a youth-led organization dedicated to increasing youth participation in energy discussions and supporting young professionals entering the sector.

EYEN works to:

• Empower young professionals
• Strengthen youth voices
• Promote innovation
• Facilitate networking
• Support energy transition initiatives

The organization has become a leading platform for youth engagement in Europe’s energy landscape.

The EYEF 2026 Organising Team

The forum is coordinated by a dedicated group of volunteers and young professionals from across Europe.

Key members include:

• Daria Alekseeva – EYEF Manager
• Florentina Oldani – Logistics Coordinator
• Melav Salih – Programme Coordinator
• Samantha Chinyoka – Programme Officer
• Javiera Branes – Programme Officer
• Szymon Hoffmann – Sponsorship Coordinator

Together with many other volunteers, they work to ensure the success and impact of the forum.

Partnerships and Collaboration

EYEF 2026 is supported by institutional and industry partners committed to advancing youth participation in the energy transition.

The forum continues its cooperation with IRENA and actively welcomes new partners interested in supporting youth engagement in energy and sustainability.

These partnerships help provide participants with access to:

• Industry expertise
• Professional networks
• Learning opportunities
• Career development pathways

Why You Should Apply

Participating in EYEF 2026 can help you:

• Expand your professional network
• Learn from energy experts
• Develop leadership skills
• Gain international exposure
• Collaborate on innovative solutions
• Strengthen your career prospects
• Join a community of energy changemakers

Whether you are just beginning your career or already working within the sector, the forum offers valuable opportunities for growth and impact.

APPLY HERE

Application Deadline

Applications Close:
21 June 2026

Interested applicants should submit their applications before the deadline to maximize their chances of selection.

Click HERE to learn more about European Youth Energy Forum (EYEF) 2026 in Nice, France.

Conclusion

The European Youth Energy Forum 2026 represents an outstanding opportunity for students, researchers, young professionals, and emerging leaders who want to contribute to Europe’s energy transition. Through its unique blend of online learning, international networking, professional development, and collaborative problem-solving, EYEF equips participants with the knowledge, skills, and connections needed to drive meaningful change in the energy sector.

Hosted in the beautiful city of Nice, France, and supported by the European Youth Energy Network and international partners, the forum offers a powerful platform for youth engagement and leadership. Young people who are passionate about renewable energy, climate action, sustainability, innovation, and policy development are strongly encouraged to apply before the 21 June 2026 deadline.

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