It comes as independent regulator Ofgem and trade association Energy UK launched a new campaign on Monday (January 20) to encourage owners of radio teleswitch service (RTS) meters to “act now” and get a meter upgrade from their energy supplier ahead of the system’s switch-off later this year (June 30).
The campaign includes a TV advert featuring presenter Lorraine Kelly, who warns “don’t delay”.
Households that have not upgraded their electricity meter could be left without heating or hot water following the deactivation, the regulator said.
🔔 Important update for customers with a Radio Teleswitch electricity meter 👇
There’s only six months to go until the Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS) is switched off, which could impact your heating and hot water supply.
We’re working with @BrightonHoveCC and @ofgem to… pic.twitter.com/CWZO6pnc8H
— EDF 🇬🇧 (@edfenergy) January 17, 2025
What are RTS meters?
Ofgem revealed as of January 2025, there were around 600,000 RTS meters in Britain.
RTS meters were introduced in the 1980s and rely on longwave radio signals from the BBC’s transmitter to switch meters between peak and off-peak tariff rates.
However, the equipment which broadcasts the signal is nearly obsolete and it will be switched off on June 30.
A spokesperson for Ofgem said: “The campaign has been launched because of the urgent need to increase the rate of RTS meter upgrades across Great Britain before the signal is switched off from June 30 2025.
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— Ofgem (@ofgem) January 16, 2025
“It is important that RTS customers book their installation as soon as they are contacted by their supplier.
“All customers should have been contacted by their supplier by the end of 2024.
“Failure to act may result in the heating and/or hot water being continually left on or off, or the charging-up happening at the wrong time of day, leading to higher bills.”
The replacement of an RTS meter comes at no extra cost, Ofgem said, adding customers should be wary of scams.
They will not be asked to provide payment details or make any payment when booking an appointment with their energy supplier.
Dhara Vyas, chief executive of Energy UK, added: “Energy suppliers are working closely with consumer groups and the regulator Ofgem to urge customers with radio teleswitch meters to act now to upgrade their meter.
“By making sure they are in contact now, customers can minimise disruption, arrange a smooth meter replacement and continue enjoying the benefits they currently receive from RTS.”
The campaign is being supported by fuel poverty charities National Energy Action and Energy Action Scotland, who warn the switch-off could negatively impact poorer and more isolated areas.
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Danni Barnes, director of development and partnerships at National Energy Action, commented: “Radio teleswitch meters are often used with ageing electric heating systems, which are more common in areas experiencing severe fuel poverty.
“The switch-off could exacerbate costs for households already struggling and result in households losing control of their heating and hot water.
“In the worst cases, some may not be able to use their heating or hot water at all.”
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