The UK government has announced a delay in the planned switch-off of the Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS), an old electricity metering system still used in about 300,000 homes. Originally scheduled for a complete shutdown on 30 June 2025, the RTS will now be phased out more gradually to address concerns over potential heating issues and higher energy bills.
Introduced in the 1980s, RTS meters use long-wave radio signals to manage off-peak electricity usage for heating and hot water. The technology is being retired because the equipment that produces the radio signal has reached the end of its operational life and can no longer be adequately maintained.
Understanding the RTS and the Reason for Delay
The primary reason for the government’s decision to delay the switch-off is a national shortage of engineers available to carry out the necessary smart meter upgrades. Despite repeated government warnings and supplier targets, progress on replacing RTS meters has been slow, particularly in rural and hard-to-reach areas. The engineering capacity simply hasn’t been sufficient to meet the original June 2025 deadline, putting vulnerable households at risk of being left with faulty or inactive heating and hot water systems.
To avoid this scenario, the government is now opting for a more gradual, phased approach to the switch-off. The first stage will impact no more than 600 households over a three-week period, acting as a test run to closely monitor supplier response times, especially for vulnerable consumers. This step-by-step rollout ensures that those who need support the most won’t be left behind during the transition.
Challenges in the Transition to Smart Meters
The transition to smart meters has faced several challenges, including a shortage of engineers and technical issues. Some customers have reported problems obtaining appointments for meter replacements, with instances of missed appointments and poor connectivity hindering the installation of smart meters. In certain cases, customers were informed that smart meters would not work in their homes due to weak signals or incompatible setups.
Energy suppliers have acknowledged these issues and are working to find solutions. For example, pre-programmed smart meters that can be remotely switched to smart mode when signal strength improves are being offered to customers facing connectivity problems.
Implications for Consumers
The delay provides households with additional time to replace their RTS meters with smart meters, which offer enhanced features such as real-time energy monitoring and more accurate billing. However, consumers are encouraged to proactively reach out to their energy suppliers to arrange meter replacements, especially if they have not yet been contacted.
Failure to replace RTS meters could result in heating and hot water systems not functioning correctly, potentially leading to increased energy bills or loss of service. Ofgem has stated that no customer should be financially disadvantaged as a result of the swap and urges suppliers to offer the same or equivalent tariffs after their RTS meter has been upgraded.
Next Steps for Affected Households
The government’s decision to delay the RTS switch-off reflects a commitment to ensuring a smooth transition for consumers. By taking proactive steps now, households can avoid potential disruptions and benefit from the advantages of modern smart metering technology.
If you’re unsure whether you’re affected or need help navigating the change, we’re here to support you. We can provide clear guidance, liaise with your energy supplier on your behalf, and even help book meter replacement appointments – ensuring a stress-free, future-ready upgrade. Contact us today for support.
