For immediate release:

NATIONAL SWITCH-OFF OF RTS METERS

Householders across Rutherglen and Cambuslang have been urged to check whether they use the Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS), ahead of the national switch-off on the 30th June 2025. 

Energy suppliers use RTS to switch electricity meters between different tariff rates at different times of the day. For example, this could be to send start and stop times to Economy 7, Economy 10, and storage heaters.

The technology has worked by the BBC delivering a signal using their transmitter on behalf of the Energy Networks Association.

New figures have revealed that 7,750 RTS meters are still in operation in South Lanarkshire.

After the shut-off, these meters may experience issues with their electric heating and hot water – potentially leading to higher bills, or a disrupted service. 

The SNP has called for an immediate delay to the switch-off or the guarantee of full compensation to consumers.

Rutherglen MSP Clare Haughey has been in contact with both the UK Government and Ofgem urging them to delay the switch-off, but it is going ahead on 30 June 2025.

The local MSP has also been in contact with South Lanarkshire Council to see what more they can do to alert council tenants to the changes.

Electricity suppliers are responsible for replacing RTS meters with smart meters at no additional cost – anyone who thinks they may have an RTS meter should contact their supplier now to book an upgrade.

Commenting, Clare Haughey MSP said:

“The RTS switch-off takes place on the 30th of June – and it could have real consequences for households that haven’t made the switch.  

“There are 7,750 RTS meters still in use across South Lanarkshire – and no one should be left with an unreliable meter or unexpected bills.

“Local residents have contacted me having been unaware of the switch-off, and others have had problems with their energy provider in fitting their homes with the smart meter alternatives.

“I am particularly concerned about vulnerable residents, including older people who may not be aware of this change. I have urged the UK Government and Ofgem to immediately delay the switch-off, or guarantee full compensation to consumers ahead of the planned switch off. 

“However, given neither have shown any willingness to delay the switch-off, it would be my strong advice to contact your energy provider if you have an RTS meter. Please also feel free to contact my office if you are having any issues with your provider.”

Clare Haughey MSP can be contacted on 0141 561 5131, or emailed at clare.haughey.msp@parliament.scot. Her office at 85 Main Street, Rutherglen G73 2JQ is open Monday to Friday, 10am to 4pm.