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What is the Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS) and what's happening to it?
RTS is a national service that uses a radio signal to switch some electricity meters between peak and off-peak rates.
It was designed for homes that use electricity for their heating and hot water. If you have a RTS meter, you may be on a tariff that charges you a different price for the electricity you use for your heating and hot water than you do for the rest of your electricity, like lighting and appliances. Some tariffs also offer lower rates at specific times of the day.
The RTS technology is being switched off over the coming months. If you still have a RTS meter, it is important that you contact your supplier as soon as possible to arrange an appointment to have it replaced.
How will the switch-off work?
The RTS switch-off will progress through a 'controlled phase out'. This means that any households who have not yet upgraded would not face any immediate unexpected disruption to their heating or hot water. However, the national signal which controls RTS meters will still be switched off in due course.
How will you know when your switch-off is happening?
Your supplier should tell you at least two weeks in advance before the RTS signal is switched off for your meter. They will explain the impact of the switch-off for you and offer you an appointment to replace your RTS meter with an alternative. They may set up an appointment for you, with a date and time already chosen.
It is important that you get an appointment and have your meter upgraded to avoid interruptions to your heating and hot water.
How do I know if I have an RTS meter?
You may have an RTS meter if:
- your home has a separate switch box near your meter with a Radio Teleswitch label on it
- your home is heated using electricity or storage heaters
- there is no gas supply to your area, including households in rural areas and high-rise flats
- you get cheaper energy at different times of day
Why do I need a new meter?
Once RTS is switched off:
- Your heating and hot water could stop working properly – for example, turning on or off at the wrong times.
- You may be charged the wrong amount, because your supplier won’t be able to track your energy use properly.
- Some homes may switch to a backup or old timer, so the problem might not show straight away – but it could appear after a power cut or another change.
After the switch off, the meters may no longer work properly. This could mean that your heating and hot water supply stops functioning as normal or electricity bills could be higher.
Please get in touch with your electricity supplier if you’re not sure which meter is in your home. If you do not know who your supplier is, you can follow this find your energy supplier link to learn more.
What will my meter change to?
It is likely that you will be given a smart meter which will give you a similar service to your RTS meter. Find out more about getting a smart meter.
If your supplier is not be able to offer you a smart meter yet, they must make sure you have a suitable meter installed, and that your service is not disrupted. Please speak with your supplier for more information.
Where I can learn more?
Find out more information and advice on energyadvice.scot.
