Overview

• The Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS), introduced in the 1980s, will be decommissioned on June 30, 2025, as its long-wave signal infrastructure reaches the end of its lifespan.
• Around 800,000 UK households currently using RTS meters must transition to smart meters or suitable alternatives to avoid disruptions in heating, hot water, and accurate billing.
• Energy suppliers are contacting affected households to schedule replacements, with most being offered smart meters and others receiving alternative devices where smart meters are not feasible.
• Ofgem is monitoring supplier progress, requiring contingency plans, and retaining the option to impose fines or extend deadlines to ensure consumer protection.
• Failure to replace RTS meters could result in heating or hot water failures and incorrect billing, potentially leading to higher energy costs for households.