Radio Teleswitch Service Switch-Off

Published: Friday 29 May 2026

This image shows a man's face looking at an energy meter

Council house tenants are being reminded that the Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS) is coming to an end and is being switched off.

RTS meters automatically switch between different electricity rates, such as cheaper off‑peak electricity and higher daytime rates.

This allows households, especially those using electric storage heating, to take advantage of cheaper overnight electricity while still efficiently managing heating and hot water.

The final phase of the RTS switch-off in Scotland began on 6 April 2026 and will continue until 15 June 2026. The switch-off was a national decision made as the equipment was reaching the end of its operational life.

Head of Housing Services, Sharon Egan, said: “If your home has an RTS meter, it will need to be replaced.

“If the meter is not replaced before the RTS signal is switched off, your heating and hot water may not work properly. 

“Relying on this older system increases the chance that it could stop working without warning.

“Your electricity supplier is responsible for replacing the meter. They will contact you if your home has an RTS meter to arrange an appointment.

“You should respond promptly to any letters, emails, phone calls or visits from your energy supplier and arrange a meter replacement as soon as possible. This will reduce the risk of any disruption to your heating or hot water.

“If you’re heating or hot water stops working contact your energy supplier immediately.”

Suppliers have confirmed they are prepared to respond quickly to any issues linked to the RTS switch-off.