The Vienna Energy Forum (VEF) a global, multi-stakeholder platform for discussing key issues of energy debate and to move the global energy agenda forward, was held in Vienna, Austria on 11 and 12 May 2017. The biennial event was held at Hofburg Palace, located in the heart of Vienna – one of the most sustainable cities in the world. It was the fifth time such an event was organised and this year’s theme was "Sustainable energy for the implementation of the SDGs and the Paris Agreement." The key output of the Forum was the formulation of 10 key messages reflecting role of energy in implementing SDGs and Paris climate agreement. Over 1650 participants representing more than 100 countries attended the event. In addition to the main Forum, there were numerous side events held on 9 and 10 May 2017 at different locations in Vienna.

The side events covered topics such as: Regional incubation networks, clean energy for migrants and vulnerable groups, modern cooking energy, micro-grids, smart city development, catalysing action on energy efficiency, and promoting women to advance the global energy transition. More topics can be seen at: www.viennaenergyforum.org/side-events/2017.