What is the Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS)?
The Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS) uses a radio signal to switch electricity meters between peak and off-peak tariffs. There are just over 1,500 active RTS meters in Portsmouth.
RTS allows energy suppliers to offer different tariff rates; so that consumers can make use of cheaper off-peak tariffs to charge their heating and/or hot water systems up overnight.
Typically, the system sends a radio signal to the meter, which then uses this signal to switch between the different tariff rates. Introduced in the 1980s, RTS system is now outdated and unmaintainable and is reaching the end of its operational life which is why it’s being turned off.
Making the switch
The switch off commenced from 30 June 2025 and completed in June 2026. If you have an RTS meter and no longer have heating and/or hot water or you have noticed you are not using your cheaper rate we urge you to contact your energy supplier to upgrade your meter.
What has happened?
The signal to the meter has been switched off, meaning they havestop functioning properly, disrupting heating and hot water systems.
Without this information, suppliers may incorrectly charge for electricity usage meaning your bills can be more expensive.
If you have not switched, the heating and/or hot water provisions in your home or business could be affected. You may find that your heating and/or hot water is continually left on or off, or the charging-up happens at the wrong time of day.
Your electricity supplier won’t be able to confirm how much electricity you have used during peak or off-peak times, which means your electricity costs could be much higher than before.
You may be eligible for a smart meter, to find out the benefits of having one click here.
How do I know if this affects me?
If you’re unsure whether you have an RTS meter, contact your electricity supplier.
The equipment usually looks like a big black box next to your meter.
You may have an RTS (pictured to the left) if you have:
- A switch box labelled “Radio Teleswitch” or “RTS”
- Electric heating or storage heaters
- No gas supply
- Cheaper electricity at specific times
Upgrading your meter will help maintain your heating and hot water systems and ensure accurate billing after the RTS switch off.