Older electricity meters that use the Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS) signal are being phased out across Great Britain and Smart Energy GB is urging anyone with an RTS meter to act now.

Anyone who has an RTS meter needs to have it replaced by their energy supplier in order to avoid the risk of disruption to their heating or hot water supply, and to make sure they do not potentially overpay for their energy.

Commenting, Martin Whitfield MSP said:

“Any South Scotland residents who have an RTS electricity meter need to take steps to replace it without delay.

“The signal controlling these meters is being phased out, which could affect your heating or hot water. If your supplier has been in touch, don’t delay – arrange your meter replacement now.”

“Find out more now at www.ofgem.gov.uk/rts.“

What is an RTS meter and why is the signal being phased out?

RTS meters use a radio signal to switch between peak and off-peak energy rates. As of 22nd August, there are around 171,000 households across Great Britain who still need to arrange to have their RTS meter replaced. RTS was introduced in the 1980s and is now outdated. As a result, a carefully managed phase-out of the RTS signal is now taking place across Great Britain.

Why does this matter?

If you have an RTS meter and it isn’t replaced before the signal is switched off in their area, your heating or hot water could stop working or stay on all the time, potentially leading to higher bills.

What do people with an RTS meter have to do?

Most people won’t have an RTS meter. But for those that think they might have one, or who have already been contacted by their energy supplier, they shouldn’t wait – they need to arrange their replacement now. Their supplier will explain the next steps and help them find an energy tariff that suits their lifestyle.

What will happen when an RTS meter is replaced?

In most cases, an RTS meter will be replaced with a smart meter. These meters can switch between peak and off-peak rates like RTS meters, but they also give people access to more tariffs. Getting a smart meter installed won’t increase the cost of their energy – how much people pay depends on their tariff and usage.

For more information and advice

Smart Energy GB is the national, not-for-profit consumer engagement campaign supporting the smart meter rollout. It is currently supporting Ofgem and industry to inform the public about the RTS phase-out.

For more information about the phase-out, visit Ofgem’s page here: www.ofgem.gov.uk/rts.