Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS): Electricity Supply Licence changes

Details of outcome

In February 2025, in an open letter, we consulted stakeholders on policy outcomes behind our considerations for the introduction of specific licence conditions in relation to the replacement of Radio Teleswitch (RTS) meters.  Given the considerable improvements we have seen in the progress of RTS replacements and deeper monitoring into tariff provisions we have decided not to proceed with the introduction of these conditions, at this time.  

There are a number of existing provisions in the licence (referred to in this letter) and since the publication of our policy consultation, we have implemented strengthened automatic payment compensation arrangements for consumers seeking metering appointments. These obligations should ensure the consumer outcomes we want to see from the RTS replacement programme including the delivery of fair prices, the quick resolution of any disruption or issues experienced by consumers, and ensuring that consumers receive accessible, timely and appropriate advice and information from their supplier. We will continue to monitor performance against these conditions carefully and review the need for any further strengthening of regulatory obligations should the current arrangements lead to gaps in consumer protection. 

Read the full outcome

Original consultation

Consultation description

We want to introduce new Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS) licence conditions under the Electricity Supply Licence that protects consumers from the risk of supply disruption and higher bills.

The new licence conditions will make sure consumers are treated fairly and have an alternative meter in place following the end of RTS from 30 June 2025.

Who should respond

We want to hear views from electricity supply licensees, consumer groups, charities and other stakeholders.

Background

Electricity suppliers were given time to plan the upgrade of RTS meters before the end of RTS from 30 June 2025.

However, recent RTS upgrade rates show that consumers may potentially still be using an RTS meter even after the technology that supports it ends. There are still approximately 600,000 RTS meters left in Great Britain (England, Scotland and Wales) as of January 2025.

Consumers who have an RTS meter in their home or business could experience a disruption unless electricity suppliers arrange suitable meters ahead of the shutdown.

Our proposal

We are consulting on whether new licence conditions under the Electricity Supply Licence Condition 12: “Matters relating to Electricity Meters”, should be added to support RTS meter consumers.

These will state that after support for RTS meters ends:

• the licensee cannot supply electricity to premises that rely on RTS technology
• the licensee must take all reasonable steps to replace the RTS meter within 30 working days when a consumer switches supplier
• the licensee must take all reasonable steps to provide a tariff that leaves the consumer  ‘no worse off’ than their existing arrangement as a result of an RTS meter upgrade

Why your views matter

Your feedback will help us develop the new licence conditions. It will also make sure we are safeguarding consumers who still have an RTS meter installed in their premises.

How to respond

Please send your feedback or questions to smartmetering@ofgem.gov.uk by 11 March 2025. You can send a PDF (pdf), Word (doc) or Excel (xls) document as part of your response.