RTS Phase-Out: Don’t Lose Access to Heating and Hot Water

Today marks the beginning of the third and final stage of the Radio Teleswitch (RTS) service phase-out. From now until 17 June, the 173 remaining radio transmitters will be switched off on a week-by-week basis.  

This means that households still reliant on this technology must urgently change their energy meters to avoid losing access to heating and hot water or receiving higher energy bills.  

The Radio Teleswitch (RTS) service is a technology used to manage older electricity meters. It was introduced in the 1980s as a simple way for households to switch between electricity rates and benefit from cheaper off-peak tariffs.  

However, as meter technology has evolved, the RTS service has become outdated and difficult to maintain. This prompted the decision to phase the service out, replacing it with more modern and efficient smart meters. These allow households to monitor their energy use and spending in real-time, easily switch providers, and access the best energy rates available.   

Although the RTS service phase-out began last year and has been widely publicised, many people still rely on the technology, particularly in rural areas. This puts households at risk of losing access to heating and hot water over the coming months.  

Therefore, it is essential that anyone still using the RTS service arranges for a replacement meter to be installed as soon as possible by contacting their energy supplier. 

If you know someone who is still using the RTS service and may need help switching to a smart meter, please alert them to this upcoming change. As always, please contact my office if you have any questions or concerns.