With the Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS) shutting down on June 30th, households across the Highlands and Moray are urged to act now to upgrade their meters and protect themselves from rising energy costs.
At AES Solar, we’re encouraging energy customers especially those in rural areas to check with their supplier about a meter replacement before the switch-off takes effect.
What Is RTS and Why Is It Being Switched Off?
The RTS system was introduced in the late 1980s, allowing energy suppliers to send signals to customers’ meters, switching between peak and off-peak tariffs automatically. Many homes using electric storage heaters or water heating systems rely on this service to ensure their appliances charge up overnight when electricity is cheaper.
However, as energy infrastructure has modernised, RTS technology has become outdated. The system is now being permanently deactivated, meaning that customers with RTS meters must switch to a new meter or risk losing control over when their heating and hot water systems operate.
How Could This Impact Your Home?
For many households, particularly those off the gas grid, an RTS meter is essential for managing energy costs. Without an upgrade, customers may find their heating and hot water systems turning on at the wrong times, running inefficiently, or even failing to work altogether.
Jamie Di Sotto, Commercial Director at AES Solar, explains:
RTS meters are often used with older electric heating systems, which are more common in areas facing extreme fuel poverty. In towns like Burghead, for example, which is off the gas mains, many households have electric storage heaters and are in fuel poverty, meaning the impact on one small town could be huge.”
The announcement about the rise in energy costs a few weeks ago reinforces the importance of long-term, sustainable solutions that can help households better manage their expenses. Energy prices can be unpredictable, making it increasingly valuable to explore alternatives that offer more stability and control.”
Smart Meter Limitations in Rural Scotland
For many, the logical solution would be to upgrade to a smart meter. However, this isn’t always straightforward in rural Scotland. Many areas still experience poor signal coverage, making smart meters unreliable or even unusable.
Darren McDowall, Sales & Design Manager at our Dingwall office, said:
“The switch-off could increase costs for households that are already struggling, potentially leaving them without control over their heating and hot water. In the worst-case scenario, some may find themselves unable to use either at all. It is therefore essential for anyone with a RTS meter to urgently reach out to their supplier to arrange for a meter replacement. By contacting their supplier now, customers can reduce disruption and ensure a seamless transition to a new meter, meaning they can continue to enjoy the benefits they currently get from RTS.
“The shutdown is prompting many to reconsider their heating options. For households relying on these older systems, the loss of RTS means they need to look for alternative ways to control and manage their heating. Heat pumps are a popular alternative as they are energy efficient and can be integrated with smart control systems, providing more flexibility and the potential to save money on bills by using smart tariffs with cheaper off-peak rates.”
Don’t Wait, Take Action Today
The RTS switch-off is fast approaching, and delaying could result in unnecessary stress, higher bills, or even loss of heating and hot water. By contacting your energy supplier now, you can ensure a smooth transition to a new meter without disruption.
If you’re also considering upgrading your heating system, our team of heat pump specialists is here to help. We specialise in renewable energy solutions that not only future-proof your home but also reduce energy costs in the long run.
Need advice on your heating options? Contact us today for expert guidance on heat pumps and renewable heating solutions.
