Octopus Energy has issued an urgent warning to UK households using radio teleswitch meters (RTS), as these outdated devices will cease to function from 30 June 2025. Around 600,000 customers could be affected, potentially facing a loss of power, heating, and hot water if they do not switch to a modern alternative.
What Are RTS Meters and Why Are They Being Phased Out?
RTS meters were first introduced in the 1980s and were designed to switch between peak and off-peak tariff rates using longwave radio signals from the BBC. These signals allow customers to access cheaper electricity rates during off-peak hours. However, the system that transmits these signals is now being decommissioned, making the meters obsolete.
Once the signal is switched off, any home still using an RTS meter may lose its electricity supply. Customers who rely on electric storage heaters, panel heaters, or immersion heaters for heating and hot water are especially at risk.
How Octopus Energy Is Addressing the Issue
To minimise disruption, Octopus Energy is fast-tracking the replacement of outdated meters. The company has deployed additional engineers to ensure a smooth transition for affected customers. Nearly a quarter of impacted households have already been prioritised for an upgrade.
Customers switching to a smart meter will gain several benefits, including:
- Accurate real-time energy usage tracking
- Access to smart tariffs
- Participation in free-energy periods when excess green energy is available
In addition, Octopus Energy is offering free Octopus Home Mini devices to customers who switch. These devices provide real-time data on energy consumption and costs.
Additional Facts About the RTS Meter Phase-Out
While the core message remains the urgency of upgrading meters, several additional details are worth noting :
- Number of customers covered by Octopus Energy: The company is prioritising around 150,000 of the 600,000 affected households.
- Financial impact: Households failing to upgrade could face higher energy bills, though specific cost increases are not detailed.
- Details about the Octopus Home Mini: This device is being provided free of charge to customers switching to smart meters. It offers real-time tracking of energy consumption and costs.
- Reason for RTS shutdown: The system is being decommissioned due to ageing infrastructure and the shift towards smart meters. However, it is unclear whether the decision was made by the government, energy suppliers, or both.
- Other energy suppliers also affected: RTS meters are used by various energy suppliers, meaning customers outside of Octopus Energy must also check with their providers about an upgrade.
What Should Affected Customers Do?
Customers with an RTS meter are strongly encouraged to book an upgrade as soon as possible. Octopus Energy has provided an online portal where customers can register their interest for a smart meter installation.
John Szymik, CEO of Octopus Energy Services, emphasised the urgency:
“We urge all affected customers, regardless of their supplier, to book their meter exchange now to avoid losing heating and hot water.”
The Wider Impact on the Energy Sector
The phase-out of RTS meters is part of a broader shift towards a smarter and more flexible energy grid. Smart meters not only improve energy efficiency for individual households but also help integrate renewable energy sources more effectively.
With the June deadline approaching, Octopus Energy customers and others still using RTS meters should take immediate action to prevent disruptions and ensure continued access to electricity.
