What is Radio Teleswitch Meter (RTS) switch off?

What are Radio Teleswitch Service Meters (RTS)?

A Radio Teleswitch Service Meter (RTS) is a type of electricity meter that uses radio signal to help switch between peak and off-peak rates. Some traditional multi-rate meters operate using RTS, which were designed to support those with heating and hot water. RTS is also referred to as Dynamic Teleswitch Service (DTS).

What is happening?

The system that supports RTS meters is now approaching the end of its operational life, and the infrastructure required to transmit the radio signals is no longer sustainable to maintain.  

As part of a nationwide upgrade to modernise the energy system, teleswitch meters are being phased out and will no longer fully operate. Those with RTS meters are at risk of having issues with their heating and hot water following the switch off.  

This is a phased switch off based on area which will commence on Monday 30 June 2025.

If you are a Valda Energy customer with an RTS meter, we will be contacting you regarding your specific switch-off date and to arrange the installation of a new meter or the removal of the old meter if it is no longer being used.

How do I know if I've got an RTS meter?

You may own a RTS meter if you have either the following: 

• Your energy supplier should have contacted you to let you know that you’ll be affected by the upcoming switch-off. 

• Your property has a separate control unit near the electricity meter labelled “Radio Teleswitch”. 

• Your business relies on electric heating systems such as storage heaters. 

• There is no gas supply available in your area. This is common in rural locations or high-rise buildings. 

• You benefit from lower electricity rates during specific times of the day, typically under tariffs like Economy 7, Economy 10, or Total Heat Total Control tariff.  

How will it affect me?

If you own a Radio Teleswitch Meter, is important that you upgrade before your area is switched off as you may face disruption to your business’s heating and hot water systems.   

Additionally, without the RTS signal to differentiate between peak and off-peak periods, your supplier may not be able to accurately measure your energy usage, which could lead to inaccurate billing and potentially higher electricity costs.  

Upgrading to a smart meter and its benefits

If you have an RTS Meter, you will need to contact your supplier to arrange the installation of a smart meter. A smart meter will replicate the functionality provided by an RTS meter, but with added benefits including: 

• Accurate billing based on your actual electricity usage, meaning no more relying on estimates. 

• Automatic meter readings, so you never have to submit them manually again. 

• Real-time energy monitoring helps you see exactly how much electricity you're using and when. 

• Potentially lower your bills by spotting peak usage times and adjusting your energy habits to use less and save more. 

Additonal Support 

If you would like more information about the RTS switch off, then there are a number of free and independent sources below: 

Ofgem: Replacing your Radio Teleswitch electricity meter | Ofgem  

Citizens Advice: If you have a radio teleswitch or dynamically teleswitched energy meter - Citizens Advice  

Energy Networks Association: Radio teleswitch – Energy Networks Association (ENA) 

If you need any support, our customer service team are more than happy to help you. Contact: 0330 390 4510, 09:00-17:00, Monday to Friday.