Hundreds of thousands at risk as obsolete energy meters face June 2025 shutdown

Over 300,000 UK households could lose access to heating or hot water this summer as outdated Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS) meters are set to be switched off permanently on June 30, 2025.

With energy price rises continuing to squeeze household budgets, the pressure is mounting on families to upgrade to smart meters - the only compatible replacement – before the deadline hits.

Energy regulators and suppliers are urging urgent action to avoid widespread disruption.

What Is the Radio Teleswitch Service?

The Radio Teleswitch Service is a system that allows energy suppliers to switch customers between peak and off-peak electricity rates using radio signals.

This service has been instrumental for households using electric storage heaters, panel heaters, or immersion heaters, enabling them to benefit from cheaper electricity during off-peak hours.

However, the technology is now outdated, and the equipment supporting it can no longer be adequately maintained, prompting its scheduled shutdown on 30 June 2025.

The urgency of upgrading to smart meters

As of early 2025, approximately 600,000 households in Great Britain still relied on RTS meters. Ofgem expects energy suppliers to replace all RTS meters before the service ends.

Smart meters are the only technical replacement for RTS meters, as they can be programmed to deliver a similar service. They offer real-time energy usage data, eliminate the need for manual readings, and provide access to a wider range of tariffs.

Charlotte Friel, director for retail pricing & systems at Ofgem, emphasised the importance of the transition: “One of the key functions of the RTS Taskforce is identifying hotspot areas that need more targeted resources to accelerate the upgrade programme. So it is pleasing to see E.ON Next and other energy suppliers pushing to drive up the replacement rate in Leicester.

"This is a positive declaration of intent to meet the RTS challenge head on, so our message to people in the city is that support is ready and waiting. If you are contacted by your energy supplier to arrange an appointment, please book it.”

Identifying if you have an RTS meter

According to Ofgem you may have an RTS meter if:

• There is a separate switch box near your meter labelled "Radio Teleswitch."
• Your home is heated using electricity or storage heaters.
• There is no gas supply to your area.
• You are on a time-of-use tariff, such as Economy 7, Economy 10, or Total Heat Total Control.

If you're unsure, contact your electricity supplier, who can confirm your meter type and arrange an upgrade if necessary.

Support and the next steps

Ofgem, in collaboration with energy suppliers and consumer groups, has launched a campaign to raise awareness about the RTS shutdown.

The RTS Taskforce has been established to coordinate efforts, prioritise vulnerable customers, and ensure a smooth transition to smart meters.

Energy suppliers say they are contacting affected customers to schedule smart meter installations.

Upgrades are provided at no extra cost, and suppliers are expected to offer tariffs comparable to existing arrangements.

How to identify if you have an RTS meter and what action you should take - YouTube

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