Nearly 1m UK homes need to replace energy meters in matter of months

British Gas, EDF, E.On, Octopus, Ovo, Scottish Power, So Energy and SSE customers are among them

Over 800,000 households are set to have their energy meters replaced before the network they utilise is deactivated next summer. A significant number of customers on Economy 7 and other multi-rate energy tariffs rely on these meters, which apply varying charges based on the time of day.

However, these devices function via the Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS), which transmits a signal in tandem with the long-wave channel for BBC Radio 4. This service is scheduled for termination on June 30, 2025, following an extension of the deadline after coverage by The Sun last year.

The shutdown could result in substantial bill increases for customers as they lose access to cheaper energy rates. Some residences, businesses, and schools might even find themselves without heating or hot water, while others may be unable to switch off their heating.

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The only solution to avoid these problems is for affected households to transition to a smart meter. Customers who make the switch to a smart meter will still be able to avail of multi-rate energy tariffs, including Economy 7.

Energy suppliers, the Government, and consumer groups have now committed to collaborating to replace RTS meters prior to the shutdown. The ten energy companies that have pledged their participation include British Gas, EDF, E.On, Octopus, Ovo, Scottish Power, So Energy, SSE, Total Energies, Utilita and Utility Warehouse. Industry regulator Ofgem, trade association Energy UK, Distribution Network Operators, Smart Energy GB, the Government, and consumer groups will also contribute.

The industry, through its Call To Action, has committed to several measures including: Zeroing in on regional "hot spots" with the highest number of RTS customers; expediting meter upgrades for RTS customers; giving prioritisation to vulnerable customers for upgrades; collaborating to solve technical issues by pooling knowledge and expertise; issuing monthly reports on meter replacement progress; and assessing if additional steps are required. This initiative is set to accelerate the replacement rate of RTS meters.

At the present rate, replacing all UK RTS meters would stretch until 2028. Importantly, getting a smart meter involves no cost as suppliers will fit it free of charge, and customers impacted by the RTS switch-off won't face any fees.