Smart Energy GB are warning that older electricity meters that use the Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS) signal are being phased out across Great Britain.
It is highlighting the importance of residents who have an RTS meter acting now to avoid the risk of disruption to their heating or hot water supply, and to make sure they do not potentially overpay for their energy.
Douglas Alexander MP said:
“Do you have an RTS electricity meter? The signal controlling these meters is being phased out, which could affect your heating or hot water. If your supplier has been in touch, don’t delay – arrange your meter replacement now.”
What is an RTS meter and why is the signal being phased out?
RTS meters use a radio signal to switch between peak and off-peak energy rates. As of 22nd August, there are around 171,000 households across Great Britain who still need to arrange to have their RTS meter replaced. RTS was introduced in the 1980s and is now outdated. As a result, a carefully managed phase-out of the RTS signal is now taking place across Great Britain.
Why does this matter?
If your constituent has an RTS meter and it isn’t replaced before the signal is switched off in their area, their heating or hot water could stop working or stay on all the time, potentially leading to higher bills.
What do people with an RTS meter have to do?
Most people won’t have an RTS meter. But for those that think they might have one, or who have already been contacted by their energy supplier, they shouldn’t wait – they need to arrange their replacement now. Their supplier will explain the next steps and help them find an energy tariff that suits their lifestyle.
Even if your constituent has been told previously a replacement wasn’t available, technical solutions now exist for all homes and businesses so they should contact their electricity supplier again as soon as possible.
What will happen when an RTS meter is replaced?
In most cases, an RTS meter will be replaced with a smart meter. These meters can switch between peak and off-peak rates like RTS meters, but they also give people access to more tariffs. Getting a smart meter installed won’t increase the cost of their energy – how much people pay depends on their tariff and usage.
For more information and advice
Smart Energy GB is the national, not-for-profit consumer engagement campaign supporting the smart meter rollout. It is currently supporting Ofgem and industry to inform the public about the RTS phase-out.
For more information about the phase-out, visit Ofgem’s page www.ofgem.gov.uk/rts.