Your old meter needs to be replaced
The Radio Teleswitch Service is being switched off
From June 2025, the radio signal that controls your electricity meter has started to be switched off.
The switch-off is being managed in carefully controlled groups, which started on 30 June. We’ll let you know exactly when you’ll be affected as soon as we’ve been advised.
You need to act now.
The RTS signal is used by your current electricity meter. If you don’t replace your meter before the switch-off it may stop working properly. This may cause a loss of heating and hot water or an increase in your energy bills.
DON’T DELAY. BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY.
We're predicting a shortage of appointments and meter stock towards the deadline so we're encouraging customers to upgrade as soon as possible.
What do I need to do?
Arrange a free replacement with us as soon as possible. We’ll replace your old meter with a modern meter before the signal is switched off. Don’t worry – there’s no additional cost to you.
To book a meter replacement, click the button below to select your appointment. Or you can call our metering partner, Calisen Metering, on 0333 220 5441. They’re open from Mon - Fri, 8am - 8pm, and Saturdays 8am - 5pm. You’ll need the booking reference we sent you when you call.
Will my costs be affected?
There won’t be any change to your prices. However, for some people, there may be a small change to your peak and off-peak rate timings when you upgrade to new meters; otherwise you shouldn’t notice a change. Your new off-peak times will be 11.30pm to 7am (GMT).
The great news is…
A modern meter means more benefits for you.
Smart meters provide automatic meter readings, saving you time and effort every month.
Automated readings means you’re billed more accurately, without estimates.
You’ll be offered a free smart meter display, making it super easy to understand your energy.
If you pay by prepayment topping up credit is much easier from your phone, computer or in any PayPoint store.
Want to know more?
You can find more information about the signal switch-off on Ofgem’s website, the energy regulator.
Upgrade for free
Book your upgrade online or call our metering partner, Calisen Metering, on 0333 220 5441.
Frequently asked questions
The Radio Teleswitch System (RTS) is a system that was created to help with the control and management of electricity meters that had special tariffs, such as Economy 7. It operates via long-wave radio signals, and it allows remote switching of large numbers of devices, for example between day or night rates or to automatically turn on and off heating or hot water.
A meter that works using the Radio Teleswitch System. The electricity meter is fitted with a device that picks up the RTS signal and controls the time-switching features on the meter. If these meters aren’t replaced before the system is switched off they may no longer perform correctly (see below).
If your old RTS meter isn’t replaced before the RTS infrastructure is switched off, the heating and/or hot water provisions in your home or business could be affected.
For example, 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. And we won’t be able to confirm how much electricity you’ve used during peak or off-peak times, which means your electricity costs could be much higher than before.
It’s important that you book an appointment to have your meters replaced to make sure that you’re not caught short if your old meter stops working properly.
These RTS meters are likely coming to the end of life and the certifications are about to expire due to age. We’re responsible for replacing the meters as part of the terms of our licences.
To book a meter replacement, click here. Or you can call our metering partner, Calisen Metering, on 0333 220 5441. They’re open from Mon - Fri, 8am - 8pm, and Saturdays 8am - 5pm. You’ll need the booking reference we sent you when you call.
Economy 7 tariffs are fully supported by all suppliers that provide them, including UW, and there are no plans to change that. But it’s important you upgrade to a modern meter to make sure your peak and off-peak timings change correctly.
If you no longer need a multi-rate meter (for example, your storage heaters were replaced by gas central heating) you can get in touch to discuss your options. For example, it may make sense for you to move to an unrestricted timing.
Once you switch away from a Radio Teleswitch tariff, you won’t be able to get it back. But it is necessary to ensure your system continues to work correctly.
Yes, if you have a Radio Teleswitch meter it may still affect you. We recommend upgrading to a modern meter as the meter is probably reaching the end of its life and the certification may be expiring soon.
As a bonus, for some people, removing the old meter could mean you no longer need a secondary supply.