by Brianna Crandall — November 30, 2015—The OpenADR (Open Automated Demand Response) Alliance and USEF (Universal Smart Energy Framework) Foundation signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) that lays the foundation for the two organizations to cooperate on the use of demand-side flexibility to optimize smart energy systems.
By working together, the partners aim to accelerate the development of an integrated smart energy future that is energy efficient, cost effective, and beneficial for businesses and consumers alike.
OpenADR is an open, standardized way for electricity providers and system operators to communicate DR signals with each other and with their customers, explain the groups.
Using a common language, USEF delivers the integrated market structure, and the tools and rules for commoditization and trading of flexible energy use. USEF specifies the roles, the processes, and the data communication basics that maximize the value of flexible energy use. As such, USEF provides a universal framework to accommodate and monetize OpenADR standardization services.
Mutual advantages
USEF Foundation and OpenADR Alliance recognize mutual advantages in cooperation. OpenADR could benefit from USEF’s front-running position in Europe and existing alignment with European initiatives. USEF benefits from the fact that OpenADR is adopted by many equipment manufacturers and the practical experience with U.S. demand response programs.
Goals
Under the agreement, the two organizations will work together to harmonize the communication methods used to execute the business functions defined by USEF. Both parties will also collaborate on key industry initiatives such as creating and proposing new demand response and flexibility programs, and implementation of value-add functions for utilities and other energy sector companies.
The Universal Smart Energy Framework (USEF) provides the international common standard for a unified smart energy market, connecting projects and technologies at the lowest cost. With a value-to-all approach, USEF enables the commoditization and trading of flexible energy use. The framework defines the market structure, stakeholder roles, how they interact, and how they benefit by doing so.
To accelerate the transition to a commercially viable smart energy system, USEF Foundation develops, maintains, and audits the framework. Founded by seven key players active across the smart energy chain, USEF partners work together to effectively address the challenges of one integrated system that benefits new and traditional energy companies as well as consumers.
