Electric heating

Radio Teleswitching Service

The Radio Teleswitching Service (RTS) is also known as the BBC's long wave signal. It's the same signal that powers the long wave Radio 4, the shipping forecast, and even test cricket.

Some electricity meters also use this signal. It lets them switch between peak and off-peak times, and control your heating and hot water.

The BBC is planning to switch off the signal on 30 June 2025. This change is similar to the shift from terrestrial to digital TV - it's a nationwide upgrade to a new technology.

If you have a meter that uses the RTS signal, we'll be in touch about installing a new meter soon.

What happens if I don't replace my meter?

When the RTS signal is turned off, your meter could get stuck on the last schedule it used. This means it'll be out of sync with your tariff's peak and off-peak hours, which could end up costing you more. You could also be at risk of losing your heating and hot water.

We want to avoid this ever happening, so it's really important to get your meter replaced as soon as possible, ahead of the switch off. We'll be in touch about this soon.

When will the RTS signal be turned off?

The planned switch off date is 30 June 2025.

Who is affected by this change?

The switch off is happening all across the UK. It affects everyone with this type of meter, no matter who supplies your energy.

Which meters are affected?

Atlantic - Comfort Plus

Atlantic Economy 10 (Eastern)

Atlantic - Economy 9 (London)

Atlantic - Heatwise

Atlantic - Supertariff

Atlantic - Warmwise

Economy & Heating Load

Evening and Weekend Flexiheat

Off-Peak A, B, BX, E, F,Fx

RHT A, B

Storage Heating Control (SHC)

Superdeal

Total Heat Total Control (THTC)

White Meter

Winter Warmth

How do I know if I have one of these meters?

We'll be in touch if you have a meter that uses the RTS signal. Or if you want to check first, here are some things to look out for:

• There might be a separate switch box near your meter with a Radio Teleswitch label on it.

• Your property is heated using electricity or storage heaters.

• There isn't a gas supply to your area. This might be because you live somewhere rural or in a high-rise flat.

• You get cheaper energy at different times of the day. For example, you might be on an Economy 7, Economy 10, or Total Heat Total Control tariff.

What will happen to my off-peak hours when I get a new meter?

There might be a difference of 30 minutes or less to your peak and off-peak hours. For example, if your off-peak hours are 00:15-07:15 they could change to 00:45- 07:45. Your off-peak hours usually depend on the area you live in.

Will my off-peak hours change during British Summer Time?

No, they stay the same throughout the year.

What happens to my energy tariff?

We'll try our best to keep you on the same tariff. In some cases, your tariff might have to change - we'll talk to you about this ahead of replacing your meter.

Will the new meter be a smart meter?

Yes - this is for 2 main reasons. While the RTS service has been running reliably for over 40 years, it's now old technology and can no longer be maintained.

New technology is needed to replace it. Smart meters are the alternative, as they have their own communication network that can do the same job as the RTS signal.

Adding to this, we don't install traditional meters because manufacturers aren't making them anymore.

Smart meters come with loads of great benefits. They send your readings automatically, give you more accurate bills, and let you unlock exclusive rewards. You can even see your energy use in real time - helping you spot ways to save.

Find out more about smart meters.

I think I have an RTS meter but I haven't heard from you. What do I do?

It's likely you have a meter setup at home that needs us to do a little extra planning before replacing it. There's no need to worry, as we'll make sure to have everything sorted ahead of the switch off on 30 June 2025. Once you hear from us, please make sure to book your appointment as soon as you can.