Approximately 600,000 homes currently enjoying tariffs that offer cheaper power during off-peak hours may be required to switch to smart meters if they haven’t already done so.
This change is being driven by an unexpected factor: the termination of a BBC radio service. BBC Radio 4’s long-wave channel not only broadcasts news and music nationwide but also powers the Radio Teleswitch Service.
Originating from the 1980s, the RTS system utilises the longwave radio signal provided by the broadcaster to communicate with these energy units and the respective firms to accurately assign lower fees at certain times.
According to The Telegraph, RTS systems are prevalent in homes and businesses that are off the gas network and rely on electricity for heating and hot water.
Despite the broadcaster’s desire to shut it down, the BBC‘s radio signal has been maintained solely for the RTS meters and has been funded by the energy companies.
Energy UK, the trade association for energy suppliers, is now supporting the BBC and regulator Ofgem, with plans to turn off the service on June 30, 2025. Customers will need to use smart meters instead, which connect directly to the internet to communicate with firms.
Suppliers are being instructed to reach out to affected customers, with the regulator expecting 100,000 customers to be contacted each month until June to ensure a smooth transition.
Despite ongoing controversies and resistance in some communities regarding smart meters, an Ofgem spokesperson has assured: “Smart meters are the best replacement for RTS meters, giving consumers more control of their energy usage and opening access to new money-saving tariffs.
“However, customers should speak to their supplier to understand the options that are available. We expect suppliers to consider a range of innovative solutions to ensure their RTS customers get on to a metering and tariff arrangement appropriate for them.”
This initiative is part of the Government’s ambition to install smart meters in three-quarters of British homes by year-end.
It also dovetails with the BBC‘s long-term objectives, as the broadcaster aims to terminate all longwave broadcasts due to the outdated transmission method’s high energy consumption and inferior sound quality compared to FM radio services.
Long-wave signals, however, have the unique benefit of extensive coverage, enabling a single transmitter to reach every household in the UK.
