WILLEMSTAD – Utility company Aqualectra will officially begin installing Smart Prepaid meters on Tuesday, February 3, as part of its ongoing modernization of electricity services. The new system is being introduced primarily for customers who currently use the Pagatinu prepaid system, allowing them greater insight into and control over their electricity consumption.
For some time, Aqualectra has been working toward replacing all conventional water and electricity meters with smart meters. In line with global technological developments, the company says it is essential to continue upgrading its products and services to ensure reliability and quality, both now and in the future. In 2025, Aqualectra replaced nearly all water meters across Curaçao with smart meters, along with more than 30,000 electricity meters. Some customers also received Smart Prepaid meters last year, mainly those who experienced interruptions with the existing Pagatinu system.
Aqualectra’s intention is to phase out the Pagatinu system entirely, transitioning all prepaid customers to Smart Prepaid meters. While the new system maintains the same level of control over electricity usage and spending that customers currently have, it offers a more user-friendly, efficient and modern experience.
One of the main differences between the Pagatinu system and Smart Prepaid is that customers no longer need to enter a long, 10-digit code at home to recharge their account. Instead, Smart Prepaid credit can be purchased at any Pagafasil sales point without requiring a code entry afterward.
Another major change is that Smart Prepaid no longer involves a physical device inside the home or business. Customers can monitor their electricity usage at any time via their mobile phone. When the electricity balance runs low, customers will automatically receive a notification by SMS or email.
Over time, all customers currently using the Pagatinu system will be required to switch to Smart Prepaid. Customers who have already experienced interruptions with Pagatinu will automatically receive a Smart Prepaid meter along with instructions on how to use it. Customers who have not experienced interruptions but wish to schedule the upgrade can make an appointment through an online calendar starting February 3 at aqualectra.com/meterinteligente/sita. Through this platform, customers can choose the date and time that best suits them for the meter replacement.
In addition to the transition from Pagatinu to Smart Prepaid, Aqualectra will also continue replacing conventional postpaid meters installed inside yards or homes. Appointments for these replacements can also be scheduled through the same online platform.
Meter replacements, whether conventional or prepaid, will be carried out by area. Aqualectra will inform customers through newspapers, social media and its website when their neighborhood is scheduled. The entire process, from the arrival of the technician to the completion of the installation, takes approximately 45 minutes and is carried out at no cost to the customer.
Appointments can also be made through Aqualectra’s Customer Service Center by calling 0800-0135. According to the company, the transition to smart electricity meters forms part of its commitment to providing Curaçao’s community with reliable, affordable and sustainable services that contribute to the well-being of households across the island.