Is Your Electricity Meter About to Stop Working? What You Need to Know About the RTS Switch-Off
If your home uses electricity for heating or hot water — especially if you’re on a tariff like Economy 7 or Economy 10 — there’s something you need to know.
From 30th June 2025, a system called the Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS) is being switched off across the UK. It’s been around for years, quietly helping millions of homes switch between cheaper off-peak electricity rates and regular rates — especially overnight.
But now it’s coming to an end, and if your meter still relies on this system, it could affect your energy supply.
Let’s break down what this means, how to check if you’re affected, and what you need to do.
What is the Radio Teleswitch Service?
The RTS system uses radio signals to tell certain types of electricity meters when to switch between peak and off-peak electricity rates.
This setup is really common in homes with storage heaters, electric-only heating, or those on special tariffs that give you cheaper electricity overnight.
It’s been in use since the 1980s — but like all old tech, it’s time for an upgrade.
The signal will be switched off for good on 30 June 2025, which means any meter still using it will stop working properly.
How Do I Know If I’m Affected?
Here are a few signs that your meter might be using the RTS system:
- There’s a separate switch box near your electricity meter with a label saying “Radio Teleswitch”
- You’re on an Economy 7, Economy 10, or similar time-of-use tariff
- Your home uses storage heaters or electric-only heating
- You live in a rural area or high-rise without access to gas
- Your hot water or heating switches on automatically at night
If any of this sounds familiar, your meter may be affected — but don’t worry, there’s a simple fix.
What Happens If I Don’t Do Anything?
If your meter relies on RTS, then when the signal is turned off, it won’t be able to switch between off-peak and peak rates anymore.
That means:
- You could lose access to your cheaper overnight electricity
- Your heating or hot water might not work at the right times
- You could end up with unexpectedly high energy bills
The good news? Your energy supplier should be in touch with a plan to upgrade your meter well before this happens.
What Should I Do Now?
If you’ve already heard from your energy supplier, great — they’ll arrange to upgrade your meter to a newer system, usually a smart meter, at no extra cost.
But if you haven’t heard anything yet, it’s best to give them a call and ask. Don’t leave it too late — getting this sorted before the June 2025 deadline will help avoid any disruption to your heating or hot water.
Want to Read More?
There’s more info on the Ofgem website, including FAQs and updates:
Visit Ofgem’s RTS Meter Info
Need Some Extra Help?
If you’re based in Surrey, Hampshire, Berkshire or the surrounding areas and you’re not sure what kind of meter you have, we’re happy to help.
At ESI: Electrical Safety Inspections, we can check your setup, explain your options, and help you stay safe and compliant — without the stress.
Call us on 01276 300351 or visit www.esielectrical.co.uk for friendly advice.
