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 from 30 June 2025 so we need to upgrade your meter before that happens.

How to find out if you’ve got an RTS meter?

If you’re not sure whether you have an RTS meter, there are a few things you can look out for:

  • 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 if I don't upgrade my RTS meter?

If you decide not to upgrade, the heating and/or hot water provisions in your home or business could be affected.

You may find that your heating and/or hot water is continually left on or off, or the charging-up happens at the wrong time of day.

Your electricity supplier won’t be able to confirm how much electricity you have used during peak or off-peak times, which means your electricity costs could be much higher than before.

It's important that you arrange for a smart meter to be fitted.

What happens to my energy tariff when RTS meter changes?

You’ll stay on the same tariff when your meter changes, and the new meter is 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.

Book a smart meter appointment

Find out more about RTS.

You can get more information about RTS from the following:

If you're unsure if the RTS switch off affects you, please call us on 0800 183 1414.