The final stage of the national Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS) phase-out is now under way. Sandwell businesses and households using older electricity meters are being urged to arrange replacements as soon as possible.
From March to June 2026, energy suppliers across the UK will complete the transition away from RTS meters and move customers onto modern smart metering systems. Taking action early will help avoid disruption to heating and hot water tariffs.
What is the RTS phase-out?
The Radio Teleswitch Service is a legacy system introduced in the 1980s that uses longwave radio signals to control certain electricity meters. These meters automatically switch between peak and off-peak tariffs and are commonly used by properties with electric storage heating or without access to gas.
However, the technology is now outdated and increasingly difficult to maintain. The infrastructure that supports RTS is reaching the end of its operational life, and energy suppliers have been required to replace RTS meters with smart meters since 2011.
The national phase-out programme is designed to protect consumers and ensure reliable, modern metering arrangements across the energy network.
Stage 3 timeline
The final stage of the RTS phase-out runs from 2 March to 17 June 2026. During this period, groups of RTS meters will be switched off on a week by week basis as part of a carefully managed national programme overseen by Ofgem.
What businesses and residents should do
If your property uses an RTS meter, it is important to contact your energy supplier and arrange a replacement as soon as possible.
Early replacement will help ensure you:
- Maintain access to heating and hot water
- Avoid disruption when the RTS signal is switched off
- Retain access to off-peak tariffs where applicable
Find out more
Ofgem will continue to monitor progress throughout the final stage of the RTS phase-out. If you believe your property may be affected, check your meter type and contact your energy supplier to arrange a replacement.
For further information about smart meters and their benefits, visit the Smart Energy GB (https://www.smartenergygb.org/) website or contact your energy supplier directly.
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