The European Technology Platform for Electricity Networks of the Future, also called SmartGrids ETP, began its work in 2005. It aims at fostering cooperation of major stakeholders in these fields through the design, update and implementation of a Strategic Research Agenda. In this context the Platform secretariat seeks to create strong links among stakeholders and R&D and Demonstration initiatives that contribute to the success of the “SET Plan – European Electricity Grids Initiative”, and to increase exchange of information among R&D and demonstration projects as a way to speed up the learning curve for smart grids technologies.The objective of this proposal is to provide continuity to the activities of the Platform with the support of an efficient and active secretariat, with flexibility needed to quickly react the challenges ahead, in terms of efficient, impartial and transparent management of platform activities, communication strategy and so contribute to achieving the statutory platform objectives and ensure their highest quality.The four main activity lines of the secretariat are:1. Support to the main bodies forming the internal structure of the Platform: definition and planning of its activities, organisation and management of meetings, and internal communication exchange.2. Coordinate and follow-up actions carried out by ETP groups or members , ensuring the generation of high quality outcomes and playing an active role in the development of key ETP public documents.3. Coordinate links with other related initiatives, providing the information and contacts to foster bi-directional exchange of information.4. Support in the definition and implementation of a communication strategy based around an information center (the public Smart Grids ETP internet site), conferences, newsletters, workshops, disseminating activities in other events and initiatives with direct cooperation with the European Commission.