Calls to upgrade energy meters to avoid disruption

RESIDENTS in the region with ageing energy meters that are being gradually switched off have been urged not to delay having them replaced. Advice Direct Scotland is warning of waning interest among customers about the Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS) switch-off. Unless the meters are replaced, customers risk losing control of their heating and hot water or being moved onto a more expensive single-rate tariff. They are urging people in Dumfries and Galloway with RTS meters not to postpone having them changed to avoid potential disruption when the signal is turned off. The latest data from energy regulator Ofgem shows that as of September 19, there were still 61,436 RTS meters remaining in Scotland. Anyone with such a meter should have been contacted by their electricity supplier before the end of June to arrange an upgrade to a smart meter at no extra charge. However, Advice Direct Scotland is urging customers who think they might be affected to contact their supplier directly, rather than waiting. Support and advice on the switch-off is available at energyadvice.scot, or by calling 0808 196 8660. Jillian Edmund, from Advice Direct Scotland, above, said: “If you have one of these meters in your home or business, you still need to act now and accept the offer of an upgrade from your energy supplier. “Those who fail to do so risk experiencing disruption to their heating and hot water, as well as the threat of significantly higher bills. “If you have an RTS meter, you should have heard from your supplier by now, but if you haven’t, contact them directly and ask about smart meter upgrades. “Don’t delay – the switch-off is happening, and the consequences could be costly."