Check your meter
Shetland Islands Council is urging people across the isles to check their electricity meters and see if they need to be replaced ahead of the Radio Teleswitch switch-off. This is being done in a phased approach. Energy regulator Ofgem says this is due to be completed by the end of June 2026.
What is RTS?
The Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS) helps homes and businesses throughout Shetland change to off-peak electricity tariffs.
The radio signal is being switched off in a phased approach from the 30th of June 2025.
Energy UK is the trade association for the UK energy industry. It says RTS is being turned off because the underlying equipment that sends out the signal is at the end of its operational life.
Ofgem said in February 2026 there were about 550 RTS meters remaining in Shetland, with about 4,500 replaced here in the last year.
What will the switch-off mean?
Electricity customers around the UK are being warned if they do not replace their RTS meter with a smart meter, their heating and hot water systems will not function properly.
The Council is working with partners including Hjaltland Housing Association to raise awareness of the issue. Installation remains the responsibility of energy suppliers.
Check your meter
A leaflet and online video have been produced by the SIC and Hjaltland - helping people check what meter is in their home, and what they need to do next.
Ofgem has also introduced a Guaranteed Standards of Performance for smart meter installations. More information can be found here
The Council and Hjaltland are not able to install supply meters.
You can find more information on RTS meters and links to suppliers in the links section on this page.