Smart support for smart grids The secretariat of the European Technology Platform for Electricity Networks of the Future, also called SmartGrids ETP, supported the operation of this platform. The platform is helping guide research and innovation in smart electricity networks. Industrial Technologies © Thinkstock The European energy market is experiencing a major transition towards a smarter, more sustainable and more economical energy grid, both in terms of policy and technology. Launched in 2005, the SmartGrids ETP brings together major stakeholders in the area of smart electricity networks, including energy suppliers, manufacturers, academia and decision makers. The secretariat facilitated the gathering of experts to develop visions and strategic documents, under the leadership of the platform chair. In 2012, the Strategic Research Agenda (SRA) was updated from its 2008 edition, to chart a course to 2035. The secretariat also helped facilitate SmartGrids ETP's production of high-quality results, and assisted in the implementation of a communication strategy centred on an online information centre, newsletters, events and conferences. The secretariat co-organised a General Assembly in March 2012 to present the updated SRA.
