Energy meter change leaves residents confused with the next steps to take
Local residents may want to draw their attention to the incoming news on their energy meter switches. Due to recent changes, it is crucial that everyone checks their energy meters since it could lead to losing heating or facing higher energy bills in the long run.
Radio Teleswitch service to end at the end of June
It has been announced that by the end of June 2025, the Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS) is no longer being used to switch electricity meters between different tariff rates. This means that if not properly taken care of by residents before the 30th of June, heating and water systems may malfunction leading to unfortunate disruptions in the domestic and everyday life.
Some residents may need a replacement
To keep the system operating as normal, East Sussex County Council is advising and urging local residents to replace their Radio Teleswitch Meter as soon as possible. The word is also being spread with the help of the energy companies, who either have already contacted those affected or are planning to, so they are made aware to reinforce change in the system with which they use to heat their home.
Cllr Carl Maynard spoke out about the upcoming action from his position as a lead member for adult social care and health. He claimed that “Figures show that more than 10,000 properties in East Sussex have an RTS meter.”
“The energy regulator, Ofgem, has told energy companies to contact all those affected and make arrangements for meters to be switched to smart meters before the end of June.”
“If you have a RTS meter and haven’t been contacted, we would encourage you to call your energy company.”
“Not changing your RTS meter is likely to affect your heating and hot water and result in a loss of heating or an increase in energy bills if it gets stuck on, so it’s important to take action.”
This realisation ignites the problem that the local residents and energy companies are now faced with. It is up to them alone to replace every meter to prevent the otherwise consequential outcomes, if the meters are not changed.
See the criteria that may mean you need to make a change
If anyone is applicable to this criteria, then it is likely that they have an RTS meter:
• Their home has a separate switch box near the electricity meter with a Radio Teleswitch label on it
• Their home is heated using electricity of storage heaters
• There is no gas supply to their area (usually households in rural areas and high-rise flats)
• They get cheaper energy at different times of day (Economy 7, Economy 10, or Total Heat Total Control Tariffs
Make sure to act fast and contact suppliers if any of these points relate to you. However, it is likely that some numbers may try and contact the residents applicable to attempt a scam. If this happens then said resident should report the issue to their energy supplier or Citizens Advice.
For more guidance go to: https://www.energy-uk.org.uk/customers/the-radio-teleswitch-service-switch-off-what-you-need-to-know/