What you need to know about the planned RTS meter shutdown

What is the Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS)?

The Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS) is an industry-run service. It supports old versions of multi-rate or other complex meter types with certain functions. This could be switching between peak and off-peak rates or turning on your heating or hot water, depending on the type of meter.

Not all multi-rate or complex meters require the radio signals from the RTS to perform these functions. Many newer versions of complex meters rely on internal clocks, so they aren't affected by the RTS shutdown.

You can read more about the different electricity and gas meters on our blog post, answering the most common meter questions.

Do I have a meter that relies on the RTS?

You should be able to tell if you have a meter that relies on the RTS by looking around your meter. There will be a separate switch box next to your meter with Radio Teleswitch Service labelled. If you're unsure, don't worry; we'll be in contact with all EDF customers affected by the RTS shutdown. 

Your meter will most likely be found on the ground level if you are in a flat. Each meter should be labelled with the relevant flat. 

Remember most meters don't rely on the RTS radio signals, only older versions of some multi-rate or complex meters. You will be unaffected if you have a single-rate meter or newer versions of the multi-rate meters. 

When is the RTS being shut down?

The Radio Teleswitch service was due to shut down on 31 March 2024, however, the switch off date has now been extended to 2025.

When the service is switched off, meters that rely on the Radio TeleSwitch service could lose the ability to perform key functions. Even if you no longer need your off-peak hours, you could still find important functions like your heating and hot water impacted by these changes, depending on the meter type.

These changes are industry-wide and will affect both domestic and business customers with an RTS meter.

Don’t worry we're here to help. We can install a smart meter, which will allow your existing heating and hot water to work without using the radio signal.

What does this mean if I have a meter with RTS?

If you're an EDF customer and are affected by the RTS shutdown, we are in the process of contacting you to let you know the next steps.

The phasing out of RTS means if you currently have an RTS meter, you'll need to exchange it for a smart meter. This will ensure your energy supply isn't interrupted when the RTS is phased out. But don't worry; we'll be in contact to work out what is best for you. 

You don't need to wait to upgrade to a smart meter today. Having a smart meter will offer you a wide range of benefits and can make it easier for you to manage your energy usage.

Find out how you can book a smart meter to be installed by logging into MyAccount.

Book a smart meter appointment

If you're a Large Business customer, please email EBSSmartMeterBookings@edfenergy.com, and one of our team will contact you to discuss the next steps.