Radio Teleswitch Service electricity meters need upgrading soon.
The radio signal that controls some types of electricity meter is being turned off, but you won’t be cut off. Here’s what’s happening.
What is the Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS)?
The Radio Teleswitch Service, as the name suggests, uses a radio signal to help control and manage specific electricity meters when switching between peak and off-peak rates.
RTS is used for some traditional multi-rate meters and was designed to support those who use electricity for their heating and hot water. This may include those who use electric storage systems, panel heaters or immersion heaters in water tanks – some of which typically charge up overnight.
RTS was introduced in the 1980s, and is now reaching the end of its natural operational life. This means that the equipment that produces the radio signal can’t be adequately maintained anymore.
The Radio Teleswitch Service is due to be closed (its signal will begin to be phased out from 30 June 2025), so we'll need to upgrade your meter before that happens.
How do I find out if I have an RTS meter?
If you’re unsure whether you have an RTS meter, here are a few things to look out for that often indicate you do:
There may be a separate switch box near your meter with a radio teleswitch label on it.
Your property is heated using electricity or storage heaters.
There is no gas supply to your area. This includes households in rural areas and high-rise flats.
You get cheaper energy at different times of day. Your tariff might be: Economy 7, Economy 10 or Total Heat Total Control.
What happens to my energy tariff when my RTS meter changes?
You’ll stay on the same tariff when your meter changes, and the new meter will be fitted at no extra cost. For some customers, there may be a small difference to your peak and off-peak timings, but other than that, you won’t notice any difference.
Replacing your RTS meter.
Book your appointment now and get upgraded to a brand new smart meter.
What happens if my appointment is after 30 June 2025?
The RTS is being switched off in phases. We urge you to book an appointment with us for the next available date you can. If it's after 30 June 2025, please don't worry. We're taking a phased approach, and we'll do our best to reach you before you're impacted.
However, if you're impacted by the RTS switch-off before your appointment date, please get in touch. We'll arrange for an engineer to be with you as soon as possible.
Find out more about RTS.
You can get more information about RTS from the following:
If you're still unsure whether the RTS switch off affects you, please call us on 0808 501 5266.