Deadline delayed, but action’s still urgent
The UK government has announced that the planned nationwide shutdown of Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS) meters will no longer occur all at once. Instead of the full cut-off originally scheduled after 30 June 2025, the retirement of RTS technology will be implemented in small, regional phases, ensuring suppliers contact homes and businesses well ahead of time.
Yet, around 300,000 to 530,000 RTS meters are still active, especially across Scotland and rural parts of the UK . These meters rely on a long-wave radio signal—broadcast alongside BBC Radio 4—to control Economy 7-style off-peak heating and hot water systems. When the switch-off begins in your area, a meter left unchanged could freeze on peak rates—or worse, leave your heating system stuck on or off, causing serious disruption or unexpectedly high bills.
Suppliers are working tirelessly to resolve this: daily installations have surged to about 1,800 per day, compared to just 1,000 monthly previously . Major energy firms like Octopus, EDF, and British Gas are urging customers to upgrade, with thousands still awaiting replacement. Meanwhile, Ofgem is closely supervising suppliers to make sure no one is left without heating or hot water, and that billing remains fair.
What this means for your business:
Once the phased switch-off hits your region, your current tariff won’t switch automatically, and heating systems may malfunction. This isn’t just a compliance issue—it’s a risk to operations and energy costs. Smart meters offer a modern replacement, giving reliable tariff switching, real-time usage insights, and automated billing.
Here’s How Black Sheep Utilities Can Help:
Free Meter Audit: We’ll confirm if you’re on an RTS meter and recommend the right upgrade path.
Smart Meter Booking: We’ll arrange installation—fast—before your area faces cut-off.
Ongoing Support: After we switch you over, we’ll help you get the best tariff, monitor usage, and ensure accurate billing.
Your energy system shouldn’t leave you in the cold—literally or metaphorically. Contact Black Sheep Utilities now, and we’ll guide your business seamlessly through the RTS transition, keeping hot water, heating, and tariff savings exactly where they should be.
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Has the RTS meter switch-off deadline changed?
Yes. The government has delayed the full switch-off of Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS) meters. Instead of a single nationwide cut-off on 30 June 2025, the shutdown will now take place gradually, region by region. Affected households and businesses will be contacted well in advance.
What happens if I still have an RTS meter after June 2025?
Your RTS meter won’t stop working immediately after June 2025—but it could be shut off when your area is phased in. If your meter isn’t upgraded in time, it could freeze on peak rates or cause heating and hot water to stop working properly. It’s important to act before your area is affected.
How do I know if I have an RTS meter?
RTS meters are commonly found in properties using Economy 7 or Economy 10 tariffs, especially where heating or hot water is controlled by off-peak rates. If you’re not sure whether you’ve got an RTS meter, don’t worry—Black Sheep Utilities can check for you at no cost. Our free audit makes it quick and easy to find out, with no hassle or technical jargon. It’s a smart first step towards upgrading and unlocking better energy options for your business.
Will I be contacted by my energy supplier before the switch-off?
Yes, suppliers are expected to notify affected customers well ahead of the regional switch-off. However, due to high demand and tight schedules, it’s best not to wait—contact Black Sheep Utilities now to get ahead of the curve.
What should I do now if I have an RTS meter?
Don’t wait for the switch-off to catch you out. Contact Black Sheep Utilities for a free meter check and support with booking a smart meter upgrade. We’ll help you identify your next best steps—whether that’s upgrading your meter, reviewing your tariff, or improving how you manage your energy usage.
