While an increasing number of academic institutions in Africa are dedicated to renewable energy research, the exposure to the international scientific community, an access to available support mechanisms and funds remain limited. Increased private sector participation and Africa-EU scientific cooperation are seen as crucial elements to boost renewable energy research in Africa. In order to tackle the abovementioned issues, and to launch a scientific platform for Africa-EU renewable energy research cooperation, the Africa-EU Renewable Energy Cooperation Programme (RECP) in cooperation with the Pan African University Institute for Water and Energy Sciences (PAUWES), University Abou Bekr Belkaid in Tlemcen are jointly organising an international research symposium in Tlemcen, Algeria, planned for 8-10 March 2016.The objectives of the research symposium are to Foster the research dialogue between African and European renewable energy experts Promote Africa-EU academic networking and research cooperation, Share information on available research cooperation platforms and support mechanisms. The symposium is planned to result in improved knowledge about renewable energy research needs and research projects in Africa, identified joint research projects for African and EU institutions, and increased awareness and knowledge of cooperation platforms and support instruments. Participants will be a mix of African and European experts from universities and private research institutions, complemented by representatives from public sector, centres of excellence, international companies, business associations, NGOs and development partners involved in renewable energy research. The symposium is planned to be a three-day event, including thematic sessions, panel discussions, workshops and open spaces dedicated to facilitate networking and research cooperation. The symposium will be complemented by a training workshop on research proposals and a workshop on higher education and training for renewable energy.