Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS) – what businesses need to know
9 April 2024
What is the Radio Teleswitch Service?
The Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS) is a technology used by some older types of electricity meter, often those that switch between peak and off-peak tariff rates or turn on heating or hot water. Meters that rely on the RTS have been used reliably since the late 1980s. However, longwave radio technology is coming to an end and so the Radio Teleswitch Service, which uses these very same radio signals, is being phased out. In this article we cover what’s happening and when – and what this means for your business.
Countdown to the end of Radio Teleswitch Service
The Radio Teleswitch Service phase out was originally planned for March 2024 but Ofgem has recently confirmed a delay until later in the spring of 2025. After the phase out, businesses with meters that rely on RTS may find certain functions no longer work, regardless of your energy supplier. In an effort to pre-empt any disruption, we’re upgrading all affected meters and replacing them with a smart meter free of charge.
A lot of meters across the UK need upgrading urgently. Businesses that delay their smart meter install may find themselves in a situation where their energy supplier is unable to offer an appointment before the Radio Teleswitch Service ends. To protect your business from any disruption, we recommend arranging your smart meter upgrade as soon as possible.
Do you have a meter that uses Radio Teleswitch?
Contact your supplier or network operator, if you:
- Have an electricity meter that switches between peak and off-peak tariff rates, such as an Economy 7 or 10 tariff
- Have a meter that automatically turns on your heating or hot water
- If you’re unsure whether you have a Radio Teleswitch Service meter
At British Gas business, we’re contacting all our affected businesses directly to explain what’s happening, and arrange the next steps for a smart meter upgrade. Simply follow the instructions in your letter and emails sent if you get one, or log into your online account to request a smart meter for your business for peace of mind. We’ll just need to make sure your business meets certain eligibility criteria for a smart meter to be fitted.
Contact us if you have any questions.
Benefits of smart meters
Apart from being the natural next step in meter technology, upgrading to a smart meter comes with a range of benefits for your business. Smart meters work by sending meter readings using technology similar to a mobile phone. That means you won't have to submit your monthly meter readings anymore and you’ll receive accurate bills.
Managing your energy also becomes easier – real-time energy data and past consumption information gives you greater insight and control, and you’ll find your new supplier can connect to your meter quicker with an up to date smart device. If you're an existing customer, we'll install your smart meter at no cost to you and do everything we can to make the changeover as smooth as possible – your smart meter installation engineer will make sure your heating and hot water continues to work as it does now.
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The views, opinions and positions expressed within the British Gas business Blog are those of the author alone and do not represent those of British Gas. The accuracy, completeness and validity of any statements made within this blog are not guaranteed. British Gas accepts no liability for any errors, omissions or representations. The copyright in the content within the British Gas business Blog belongs to the authors of such content and any liability with regards to infringement of intellectual property rights remains with them. See the Fuel mix used to generate our electricity. Read about making a complaint about your business energy.
