With just six months remaining before the Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS) is switched off, around 600,000 UK households risk disruptions to their heating and hot water. Ofgem has warned that customers using RTS meters must contact their energy supplier urgently to arrange a replacement—free of charge—or face potential issues with their electricity supply.
A critical deadline for RTS meter users
The RTS shutdown, scheduled for 30 June 2025, marks the end of a system introduced in the 1980s to manage electricity tariffs via longwave radio signals from the BBC’s transmitter.
These meters automatically switch between peak and off-peak electricity rates, helping many households manage energy costs efficiently. However, the technology is now outdated, and the equipment responsible for broadcasting the signal is nearing obsolescence.
According to Ofgem, households that fail to act may experience heating and hot water malfunctions, unexpected increases in electricity bills, or meters charging at incorrect times.
The regulator is urging affected customers to contact their energy provider immediately to schedule a meter replacement. All RTS customers should have received communication from their supplier by the end of 2024, according to Ofgem.
The impact of RTS meter deactivation
RTS meters play a crucial role in managing electricity tariffs for households on economy 7 or economy 10 tariffs, which provide cheaper electricity rates during off-peak hours. The system relies on a radio signal to automatically adjust tariffs, but once the service ceases, these meters will no longer function as intended.
According to Energy UK chief executive Dhara Vyas, failure to upgrade could result in incorrect meter readings or constant heating and hot water operation, leading to significantly higher energy costs.
Suppliers are working closely with regulators and consumer groups to ensure all affected customers are aware of the transition and can arrange a smooth replacement process.
How to upgrade and avoid disruption
The meter replacement process is free, and energy suppliers have been instructed to manage the transition at no cost to the customer. Households with RTS meters can check if they are affected by looking for a separate switch box near their meter with an RTS label. Customers should then contact their supplier to schedule an installation appointment.
Ofgem has also warned of potential scams, advising customers to only respond to official communications from their energy provider. As of January 2025, there were still approximately 600,000 RTS meters in operation across the UK, underscoring the urgency of the replacement process.
