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 commoditisation 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 (ABB, Alliander, DNV GL, Essent, IBM, ICT and Stedin), USEF partners work together to effectively address the challenges of one integrated system which benefits new and traditional energy companies as well as consumers.