Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS) switch-off - what you need to know

The Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS), which supports some older electricity meters, is being phased out from the 30th June 2025 – customers will be contacted about 2 weeks before the signal is to be switched off in their area. Here is some key information to help you navigate the switch-off. 

How do I know if I have an RTS meter?

Check if you have:

• a separate switch box near their meter with a radio teleswitch label on it
• their property is heated using electricity or storage heaters
• there is no gas supply to their area – this mostly impacts households in rural areas and high-rise flats
• they get cheaper energy at different times of day. Their tariff might be something like Economy 7, Economy 10 or Total Heat Total Control (THTC).

Still unsure? Contact your electricity supplier.

Why it matters:

If you don’t have your meter replaced before the signal is switched off in your area, your heating and hot water may not work properly, may be on all the time, or lead to higher or inaccurate bills.

What to do:

• Contact your supplier to book an appointment to replace your meter, even if you have been unsuccessful before – more appointments are now available and priority is for RTS customers.
•  If you rent from the council or a housing association, or your landlord pays the energy bills, contact your landlord as they will have to arrange replacement.
• If a home is unsuitable for a smart meter, or you don’t want one, the supplier must offer an alternative replacement, such as a pre-programmed meter. Where you would like a smart meter but the connection is poor, suppliers should have 4G Hubs with them to boost the signal. Individuals can ask their supplier about these options. There is a technical solution for every property.
• If someone is vulnerable, has additional needs, or are on the Priority Services Register, they should contact their supplier to let them know. Learn more about joining the Priority Services Register here: The PSR - The Priority Services Register (PSR) is a free UK wide service which provides extra advice and support, including when there’s an interruption to their electricity or gas supply - PSR
• If you’re struggling with getting your meter replaced, you may be able to complain and speak to the Energy Ombudsman for further advice.

Helpful resources:

·       Energy Suppliers RTS numbers and sites:

•  Scottish Power: 0800 074 0058 | What is the Radio Teleswitch Service switch-off?
•  OVO: 0330 102 8819 (for Economy 7 customers) | 0330 102 8594 (for all other tariffs) | Radio Teleswitching Service | OVO
•  British Gas: 0333 202 3304 | Radio Teleswitch Meters - Help & Support - British Gas
•  E.On: 0800 183 1414 | Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS) is closing end of June 2025
•  EDF: 0333 069 950 | RTS Meter Shutting Down in June 2025 | EDF
•  Octopus: 0808 164 1088 | Why do I need to urgently replace my Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS) meter? | Octopus Energy
• Energy Ombudsman: 0330 440 1624 | Resolve Energy Complaints | Energy Ombudsman