Old Meter Switch-Off Postponed: A Reprieve for Hundreds of Thousands
The government has announced a significant delay in the planned switch-off of old Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS) meters, offering a reprieve to hundreds of thousands of households who faced potential disruption to their heating and hot water. Originally slated for a 30 June deadline, the transition will now proceed with a "cautious and targeted phase out" to prevent immediate widespread issues.
Key Takeaways
- The 30 June deadline for switching off RTS meters has been pushed back.
- A "cautious and targeted phase out" will replace the immediate switch-off.
- Approximately 314,000 households still use RTS meters, with about a third in Scotland.
- Suppliers will contact affected homes and businesses well in advance of any changes.
- The majority of replacements will be with smart meters.
Why The Delay?
The decision to postpone the switch-off comes as energy suppliers were unable to replace the outdated RTS meters quickly enough to meet the initial deadline. These meters, in use since the 1980s, utilise a longwave radio frequency to manage peak and off-peak energy rates and control heating and hot water systems. Had the deadline been enforced, many households could have been left without essential services or with heating stuck on constantly.
Fuel poverty campaigners had warned that the original switch-off process was "doomed to failure" due to the unachievable deadline. The Energy Consumers Minister, Miatta Fahnbulleh, confirmed that vulnerable consumers with RTS meters would not experience "sudden disruption" at the end of this month.
Industry Response and Future Plans
Simon Francis, coordinator of the End Fuel Poverty Coalition, welcomed the government’s intervention, urging for a clear plan detailing the gradual switch-off, including regional timelines. He also stressed the need for "firm and binding reassurances that no customers will be left without heating or hot water, and that no household will face higher bills as a result of the changes."
Ofgem, the energy regulator, has emphasised the importance of customer protection throughout the phased shutdown. Charlotte Friel, Ofgem’s retail pricing director, highlighted the urgency of replacing these meters and encouraged customers to engage with their suppliers for appointments.
Energy UK, an industry group, reported a significant increase in installation rates, from 1,000 per month to 1,800 per day. Ned Hammond, the group’s deputy director for customers, urged continued momentum and customer cooperation with suppliers to book replacement appointments before their meters are phased out.
