Update - RTS Switch Off

Many constituents across North East Fife have contacted me in recent months with understandable concerns about the looming 30th June deadline for the shutdown of Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS) meters. These meters are still relied upon by over 100,000 households in Scotland, particularly in rural areas, for the automatic switching of heating and hot water systems.

This week, after sustained pressure from MPs and campaigners, the UK Government finally announced that the deadline will no longer be a hard cut-off. Instead, a phased and more controlled switch-off will begin from 30th June. I welcome this development, which will come as a huge relief to many who faced the worrying prospect of having their heating and hot water disrupted with no clarity or support from their suppliers.

The government has now confirmed that no one with an RTS meter will face an unexpected loss of heating or hot water at the end of the month. Officials also committed to reviewing the progress of the phase-out on a fortnightly basis alongside Ofgem and Energy UK, with a specific focus on ensuring rural and remote areas like much of North East Fife are not left behind.

This morning [19th June], I attended a roundtable with the Minister for Energy Consumers, along with other MPs, Ofgem, and Energy UK representatives. While I welcome the reassurances provided, it is disappointing that key information, including the exact shutdown dates for each area is still not available. What was clear is that London will be among the first regions to experience a full switch-off, with Scotland likely to be one of the last.

The stress this deadline has caused was completely avoidable. Energy companies have known for years that RTS meters needed to be phased out, and yet many only began to act at the last minute with only 12 days to go until the original deadline. This lack of preparation placed undue pressure on households and created confusion that could have been avoided with proper planning and communication.

While this decision buys some much-needed time, it is essential that this is not wasted. The priority now must be supporting households to transition away from RTS meters as quickly and efficiently as possible, with clear communication and support from energy suppliers every step of the way.

If you are a constituent who still has concerns about your RTS meter or have had trouble getting the support you need from your supplier, please do not hesitate to get in touch with my office.