500,000 households need meter upgrades by June 30
Nearly 500,000 households must replace their outdated energy meters before June 30, 2025. These old meters, called Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS), have been in use since the 1980s. They rely on a radio signal to manage different electricity rates for peak and off-peak usage. With the service ending, households risk losing access to heating and hot water systems. Energy suppliers are reaching out to affected customers to help them upgrade to modern smart meters. Local councils are also spreading the word about this urgent situation. Glasgow City Council plans to visit homes directly, while Leicester Council has alerted about 4,000 residents who need upgrades. Councillor Ruairi Kelly from Glasgow emphasizes the importance of replacing these old meters. Using outdated equipment could prevent residents from using their heating. Households can check if they have an RTS meter by looking for specific features, such as a separate switch box or multiple energy rate options like Economy 7. If you’re uncertain whether you have an RTS meter, it’s best to contact your electricity supplier for assistance.