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The Radio Teleswitch Service switch-off

Why you need to replace your RTS meter urgently?

The technology that supports RTS electricity meters will be switched off nationwide from 30thJune 2025. If you have a meter that uses the RTS signal, you could be left without heating or hot water or find your heating is constantly on. Your heating may charge up at the wrong time of the day and your electricity costs could be much higher than before, as we won’t be able to confirm how much electricity you’ve used during peak and off-peak times. This is why it’s very important that we upgrade your meter urgently.

If we’ve been in touch asking you to book a meter upgrade, please beat the rush and book an appointment as soon as possible. The longer you wait, the more chance you could experience delays to get your meter upgraded in time.

If we’ve been in touch to let you know you have an RTS meter but haven’t asked you to book a meter upgrade yet, please be assured that we’re currently testing solutions to replace your meter type. We’ll be in touch by the end of April to invite you to book a meter upgrade.

Will the RTS switch-off affect me?

It’s important to know if you have an RTS meter so you can book your meter upgrade as soon as possible. If we think you have an RTS meter, we’ll contact you to arrange a meter upgrade.

However, there are a few telltale signs you can look out for:

  • Your property is heated using electricity or storage heaters
  • You have a separate switch box near your meter with a radio teleswitch label on it
  • There is no gas supply to your area (includes homes in rural areas and high-rise flats)
  • You currently benefit from cheaper electricity rates at different times of the day (you might be on an Economy 7, Economy 10 or Total Heat Total Control tariff).

Still unsure? Please get in touch with us via webchat (available from 7am-11pm every day) or call us on 0345 270 0700. We’re here to help you avoid any disruption to your heating and hot water.

Where can I find out more about the RTS switch-off?

Find out more on Ofgem’s website and watch their explanatory video here.

What happens if I don’t upgrade my RTS meter before the switch-off?

If you choose not to upgrade your RTS meter in time, it’s very important you know what could happen. You could be left without heating or hot water or find your heating is constantly on. Your heating may charge up at the wrong time of the day and your electricity costs could be much higher than before, as we won’t be able to confirm how much electricity you’ve used during peak and off-peak times.

This is why you must act urgently to upgrade your RTS meter. Or if you think someone you know might have an RTS meter, please urge them to book a meter upgrade or contact us as soon as possible.

Why are you upgrading RTS meters with smart ones?

A smart meter can offer a similar service to an RTS meter. They can be programmed to switch between peak and off-peak times, which makes them the only available replacement to your RTS meter.

Can I get a new meter if I rent?

If your energy bill is in your name, you can choose to get a new meter installed. It’s simply recommended that you get your landlord’s permission before installing the new meter. Smart Energy GB have handy templates you can share with your landlord, find them here.

What are the benefits of a smart meter?

You’ll enjoy a similar service to your RTS meter and we can help find the right tariff for you. You’ll also benefit from:

  • Automatic meter readings, so there’s no need to manually submit them
  • The ability to monitor your energy use and see how much you’re spending
  • Seeing where you could save energy to help lower your bills
  • Access to a wider range of tariffs, including our time of use tariffs.

How do I book a meter upgrade?

Please book your smart meter easily online here or call us on 0800 074 0058 (Monday to Friday, 10am – 7pm). Most RTS meter upgrades are straightforward and should only take around an hour.

We want to help you avoid any inconvenience so please book your meter upgrade as soon as possible.

Last updated: 4 February 2025


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