Over 600,000 people in the UK have been warned of potential heat and power outages due to outdated electricity meters. The Independent regulator Ofgem and the trade association Energy UK have launched a campaign urging owners of radio teleswitch service (RTS) meters, introduced in the 1980s, to upgrade their meters before the system’s switch-off later this year. Failure to upgrade could result in households being left without heating or hot water after the signal is deactivated on June 30. Presenter Lorraine Kelly is fronting the campaign, emphasising the importance of taking action promptly.
The campaign aims to increase the rate of RTS meter upgrades across Great Britain before the switch-off date at the end of June 2025. Ofgem stresses the urgency for customers to book their meter installations as soon as they are contacted by their energy supplier. These replacements come at no extra cost to the customers, and they are advised to be cautious of potential scams requesting payment details during appointment bookings. The main concern is that without the necessary upgrades, households might experience inefficiencies in their energy consumption leading to higher bills.
As of January 2025, there were approximately 600,000 RTS meters still in use across Britain, Ofgem reported. Energy UK’s chief executive, Dhara Vyas, highlights the collaborative efforts between energy suppliers, consumer groups, and regulators to ensure a smooth transition for customers with RTS meters. The campaign is also supported by fuel poverty charities, National Energy Action and Energy Action Scotland, who raise concerns about the impact on vulnerable households in deprived areas.
Danni Barnes of National Energy Action points out the potential repercussions of the switch-off on households already struggling with fuel poverty, particularly those using ageing electric heating systems. She emphasises that the inability to control heating and hot water could further burden these households and, in extreme cases, leave them without essential utilities. Hence, the need for timely meter upgrades is crucial to prevent any disruptions in energy services for these vulnerable households.
The replacement of RTS meters is a necessary step to ensure the continued provision of heating and hot water for affected households. Customers are urged to respond promptly to communications from their energy suppliers to schedule their meter upgrades. With the deactivation of the longwave radio signal from the BBC’s transmitter approaching, it is vital for households to take action to avoid any potential interruptions in their energy supply. This campaign serves as a reminder of the importance of keeping energy systems up to date and functional for the well-being of all consumers.
In conclusion, the impending switch-off of outdated RTS meters highlights the importance of modernizing energy infrastructure to ensure uninterrupted services for consumers. The collaborative efforts between regulators, energy suppliers, and charities underscore the significance of addressing these issues promptly to prevent any negative impacts on vulnerable households. By heeding the campaign’s advice and scheduling meter upgrades, customers can safeguard their access to essential utilities and mitigate the risk of increased energy costs due to inefficient meter systems.