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Smart Meter Switch Halted for Winter
24 Dec
Summary
- Smart meter rollout paused until spring due to winter energy cut fears.
- Up to 600,000 households with RTS meters face potential disruption.
- Regulator Ofgem demands phased switch-off to prevent customer hardship.
Energy suppliers are pausing the rollout of smart meters for homes utilizing Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS) technology until at least spring. This decision stems from fears that customers could face a loss of heating and hot water during the coldest months if their current meters cease functioning.
Initially, up to 600,000 homeowners were instructed to replace their RTS meters by June 30. However, after concerns were raised about the abruptness of the transition, regulator Ofgem mandated a gradual phase-out. This ensures a smoother transition and prevents customers from being inadvertently cut off without essential services.
The delay was championed by MPs, including Alistair Carmichael, who highlighted the potential hardship for customers, particularly those on Economy 7 tariffs. While the complete switch-off date remains unconfirmed, the existing infrastructure is aging, increasing the risk of failure.
