More than half a million UK households risk being left without heating if they do not carry out an upgrade ahead of the summer, Ofgem has warned.
The energy regulator has proposed new rules for the energy sector ahead of a major switch-off of RTS (Radio Teleswitch Service) Meters in June.
Around 530,000 UK customers use the meters, which offer cheaper electricity rates at certain times of the day, Energy UK says.
However, the RTS signal will be switched off on June 30, meaning that the meters will no longer function.
This could leave a number of customers facing higher energy bills as they are stuck on peak-time rate, while others could have their heating permanently set on or off.
Ofgem has laid out new plans to protect households from disruption and higher energy bills, including pushing for the outdated meters to be replaced as soon as possible.
When a customer with an RTS meter switched provider, Ofgem is calling on the new firm to replace the meter with 30 working days.
They are also asking firms to offer replacement tariffs that are just as good as current RTS tariffs.
Last month, Ofgem and Energy UK launched a campaign to encourage owners of RTS meters to “act now” and get a meter upgrade from their energy supplier ahead of the system’s switch-off later this year.
The campaign includes a TV advert featuring presenter Lorraine Kelly, who warns “don’t delay”.
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.
“It is important that RTS customers book their installation as soon as they are contacted by their supplier.
🔔 Important update for customers with a Radio Teleswitch electricity meter 👇
— EDF 🇬🇧 (@edfenergy) January 17, 2025
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
“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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