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The Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS) Switch-Off
The Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS) is set to be decommissioned this year, marking a key milestone in the UK energy sector’s transition toward a smarter, more efficient future. This older metering technology, along with its supporting infrastructure, will be phased out on 30 June 2025. Both domestic and business customers relying on RTS meters are being urged to act now to upgrade their meters and avoid potential disruptions.
What Is RTS and Why Is It Being Phased Out?
RTS meters were introduced in the 1980s as an innovative solution to manage electricity tariffs. These meters use radio signals to automate the switch between peak and off-peak energy rates, offering convenience and efficiency at a time when smart technology was not yet available.
However, as energy systems evolve, the RTS infrastructure has become outdated and increasingly difficult to maintain. The systems and radio signals that power RTS meters are no longer sustainable for the modern energy landscape. As a result, the RTS network will be permanently switched off, leaving affected meters unable to operate.
How Does This Affect Consumers?
If you are currently using an RTS meter, you will need to upgrade. After the shutdown, RTS meters will no longer function as intended, which could disrupt billing accuracy and energy management. To ensure a seamless transition, energy suppliers are offering customers the opportunity to upgrade to more modern meters, such as smart meters, at no cost in many cases.Modern meters come with several advantages, including:
Why Act Now?
The 30 June 2025 deadline may seem far away, but delays in upgrading your meter could lead to last-minute challenges as the date approaches. By acting early, you can avoid potential service disruptions, billing inaccuracies, or a rush to upgrade when demand increases closer to the deadline.
Many energy suppliers are proactively reaching out to their customers, making it easy to arrange a meter replacement. If you have not yet been contacted, it is recommended to reach out to your supplier directly to confirm your eligibility and discuss the upgrade process.
Industry Collaboration to Support Consumers
The RTS switch-off is part of a coordinated effort by key players in the energy industry, including Ofgem, Energy UK, National Energy Action, and Energy Action Scotland. These organisations are working together to raise awareness and support consumers during the transition. Their collective goal is to ensure that no one is left behind as the energy industry modernises.
This collaboration emphasises clear communication, timely action, and accessible solutions for all consumers, including vulnerable households and small businesses.
Embracing a Smarter Energy Future
The phase-out of RTS meters is more than a technical change – it represents a shift toward smarter energy management across the UK. Smart meters are at the heart of this transition, offering consumers the tools they need to monitor, control, and optimise their energy usage.
For businesses, this upgrade provides an opportunity to gain better visibility into operational energy costs, contributing to more efficient energy strategies. For domestic users, it’s a step toward reducing waste and improving energy efficiency at home.
What Should You Do Next?
If your property or business relies on an RTS meter, it is essential to act now. Contact your energy supplier to confirm whether you are affected and to schedule a meter upgrade. Most suppliers are prepared to guide you through the process, ensuring a smooth transition.
For more detailed information on the RTS switch-off and how it may affect you, visit the Energy UK website. This industry update is a reminder of the critical role technology plays in energy management and the importance of staying informed as these changes unfold. By upgrading now, you’re not only adapting to the change but also embracing the benefits of a more efficient and reliable energy system.