Martin Lewis’s Money Saving Expert (MSE) is warning households to act promptly, as nearly one million electricity meters across Great Britain are set to stop working from June 2025. The meters in question are known as RTS meters, often linked to Economy 7 tariffs, and rely on a now outdated technology called the Dynamic Teleswitch Service. Once this service is discontinued on 30 June 2025, those still using these older meters could face higher bills and disruptions to electric heating and hot water.
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Before smart meters were introduced in 2011, RTS meters helped manage energy usage by switching between peak and off-peak times using a radio signal. This allowed households to benefit from cheaper overnight rates. However, once the RTS technology is switched off, affected customers could experience incorrect charges or heating systems running at inappropriate times. Ofgem and MSE are therefore urging anyone with an RTS meter to replace it with a smart meter to avoid unexpected costs and heating issues.
Many people may not be aware they even have an RTS meter. Signs include living in areas without mains gas, using electricity for heating and hot water, or receiving cheaper electricity at specific times of the day. MSE suggests checking your meter for a label that reads “Radio Teleswitch” – often found on a large black box near the main unit. If in doubt, contacting your electricity supplier is the safest route, as many have online resources and customer service teams ready to help clarify whether a meter needs replacing.
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Energy suppliers are currently reaching out to affected households and offering free smart meter upgrades. Vulnerable customers are especially encouraged to act quickly. In most cases, the new smart meters will replicate existing tariff features, maintaining peak and off-peak rates. However, where smart meters aren’t viable, a specialist alternative may be required. For more support, Citizens Advice can offer impartial help and guidance on energy supply options.
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