The UK Government, energy regulator Ofgem and energy suppliers have confirmed there will be a phased approach to the switch off of the Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS).
Consumers across the UK – including thousands in Scotland – were at risk of losing hot water and heating when the RTS broadcast signal which controls their electricity meters was switched off from the end of June.
Last month, Consumer Scotland wrote to Ofgem seeking a number of assurances to ensure consumers were appropriately supported and protected - including a request for more details of the industry’s phased approach to switch-off.
Consumer Scotland Head of Energy Markets Barry Coughlan said:
“This confirmation of a phased approach is good news for consumers who have been concerned about the impact of the RTS service on their hot water and heating.
“While the rate at which meters were being replaced was improving, there was a significant risk that not all RTS meter consumers would receive a meter upgrade by the time the broadcast signal ended.
“Suppliers must now act quickly to ensure all RTS consumers are identified and their meters replaced in line with the phased approach to the signal switch-off.
“We also strongly encourage RTS customers to engage with their supplier when contacted and get their meter changed.
“Suppliers must have clear plans in place to mitigate any risks to RTS meter consumers when the signal is switched off in their area.”
Background
Most homes have standard meters and will not be affected, but since the 1980s some customers have been put on Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS) meters which use a longwave radio frequency to operate.
The technology is now becoming obsolete and energy companies are implementing the start of the switch-off from July.
Approximately 105,000 households in Scotland are still waiting to have their meter upgraded.
Consumer Scotland wrote a letter to Ofgem earlier this month seeking a range of assurances including further details of the industry’s phased approach to switch-off, switch off dates in different regions and the criteria used to determine which areas would be switched off when.