House of Commons · Westminster Hall
08 April 2025 · 0 other contributors · 3,247 words
Opened by Alistair Carmichael Lib Dem Orkney and Shetland
Responding minister: Miatta Fahnbulleh
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
Alistair Carmichael raised concerns about radio teleswitch service switch-off: scotland in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.
Key points
Key requests to Government
The MP asks for clarity on how the Government plans to drive faster meter replacement and whether all energy suppliers will participate in the 'spring sprint'. He also requests information about Ofgem’s consultation results on new rules to protect customers from being worse off under their replacement tariffs.
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.
Opened the debate
The radio teleswitch service switch-off is scheduled for 30 June, affecting rural communities, particularly those off the gas grid. Despite extensions made previously, a hard deadline remains due to the obsolescence of the system. Hundreds of thousands of RTS meters remain across the UK, with many in Scotland's rural areas.
Government Response
Miatta FahnbullehThe Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero
Acknowledges the importance of the RTS switchover deadline, stating that urgent action is needed. Reports progress made so far on RTS replacements but emphasises the need for more effort, particularly in Scotland and remote rural areas. Highlights a series of spring sprints planned by suppliers to address regional hotspots with high numbers of RTS meters. Emphasises OVO's lead role alongside other supplier contributions. We are working with Members, local government, charities and local partners to spread awareness about the RTS meters transition. Since January, Ofgem's national consumer engagement campaign has been encouraging consumers with an RTS meter to contact their supplier to book an appointment. Technological solutions exist for replacing RTS meters in every household, and suppliers are expected to replace them where appropriate. In areas with lower network connectivity, pre-configured smart meters can be installed which operate similarly to analogue meters and record energy usage accurately. Ofgem is consulting on proposals to ensure consumers are not worse off after switching; the final proposal will address concerns about consumer detriment. The government understands the urgency of the situation and aims to deliver the transition without putting any consumer in a detrimental position.