Deadline: April 30, 2026
Applications are open for the Youth Energy Efficiency Leadership Award 2026. Young people play a pivotal role in the uptake of energy efficiency, increasingly taking the lead in driving change across the energy landscape. To recognise and showcase examples of youth leadership, the International Energy Agency (IEA), in collaboration with Natural Resources Canada, is launching the inaugural Youth Energy Efficiency Leadership Award.
This competition seeks to award youth-led initiatives that are making meaningful contributions to advance energy efficiency across diverse contexts, highlighting the critical role of young people in driving real-world impact. The winners will receive full sponsorship to attend and take part in the 11th Annual Global Conference on Energy Efficiency co-hosted by the Government of Canada and the IEA in Montreal, Canada, on 29-30 June 2026.
The Global Conference is the IEA’s flagship international event on energy efficiency, bringing together ministers, CEOs, and senior leaders from government, finance, and business to share solutions on energy efficiency-related topics and drive progress forward.
Benefits
Subject to any potential travel, financial or logistical restrictions, it is anticipated that up to five (5) participants will receive full sponsorship to attend the 11th Annual Global Conference on Energy Efficiency in Montreal, Canada, on 28-30th June 2026. The winners will have the opportunity to:
- Possibility to present their projects in a live pitch-style showcase at the Event
- Possibility to participate in sessions at the Event
- Engage at the Event with high-level energy experts from around the world
- Receive full funding to travel to the event (as to be further clarified in writing to winners)
- Details of travel coverage, accommodation, and logistical support will be communicated in writing to selected participants.
- Gain visibility for their project across the IEA’s platforms
Eligibility
- Applicants should be aged 18-29 years old;
- Be able to communicate in English or French;
- Available to travel to Montreal, Canada;
- Have a valid passport or able to obtain one in time.
Selection Criteria
The selection Committee will review all submissions according to the criteria below. Applicants should ensure their proposal clearly demonstrates the elements below. Your entry will be judged on:
- Problem Definition and Relevance: Identifies a meaningful energy efficiency-related challenge and explains its significance within the local or community context.
- Methodology: Presents a clear, coherent, and feasible approach, with steps, activities, tools, or methods appropriately designed to achieve the project’s objectives.
- Impact: Shows early evidence of benefits or demonstrates a credible potential for positive outcomes for people, communities, or energy systems. These may include social, behavioural, technical, or economic effects.
- Representation: Reflects awareness of local needs, conditions, or constraints and demonstrates how the project’s approach responds to these factors. Adaptability or responsiveness to feedback may also be highlighted.
Application
Proposal submissions deadline is 30 April 2026. Selection of winners: First half of May 2026.
For more information, visit Youth Energy Efficiency Leadership Award.
