Longwave radio signal phase-out begins for RTS electricity meters

A phased shutdown of the Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS), which relies on longwave radio signals from the BBC, will begin this summer, starting with a limited rollout affecting around 600 homes.

The RTS has been in use since the 1980s, using the BBC’s longwave infrastructure to automatically switch older electricity meters between peak and off-peak tariffs and control heating and hot water. With the infrastructure now reaching the end of its life, a cautious transition away from the service is underway.

Around 314,000 households across Great Britain still use RTS meters, which is approximately 1% of the total number of homes. Ministers have confirmed there will be no sudden nationwide switch-off on 30 June. Instead, a smaller, targeted phase-out will begin in areas with very few RTS users.

The longwave broadcast system supporting RTS, also known for carrying BBC Radio 4 longwave, is no longer being maintained at full capacity, prompting the need for meter replacements. Most users will be moved to smart meters, which can perform similar functions without relying on longwave signals.

Miatta Fahnbulleh, Minister for Energy Consumers, said: “We have stepped in to ensure that thousands of vulnerable consumers with RTS meters do not experience any sudden disruption at the end of this month.”

Charlotte Friel from Ofgem added that “customers must be protected at every stage of the phased area-by-area shutdown.”

The first stage of the shutdown will affect a maximum of 600 households over a three-week period. Energy suppliers will contact affected customers directly and book meter replacement appointments in advance.

Scotland, with around 105,000 RTS meters still in use, along with remote and rural areas, will be monitored closely during the transition. Ofgem has said suppliers must meet specific criteria before any area loses its RTS signal, and energy companies are expected to increase the rate of meter replacements.

RTS customers in areas without smart meter signal will be offered alternative technical solutions.

Further reforms to improve energy services and protections are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.