HOW DOES THE PAGATINU SYSTEM WORK IN CURAZAO?

Pagatinu is Aqualectra’s prepaid electricity service. It’s very common to find this system in rental properties or villas, but it’s also very useful for apartment owners. Basically, it works like a prepaid phone card. You purchase a set amount of “electricity credit,” and you can use electricity for a certain number of days, depending on how many kilowatts you consume. The advantage for the owner is that they don’t have to worry about unpaid bills from tenants or tourists, which is why it has become a very popular system on the island. This system also offers an advantage to Pagatinu users. In Curaçao, electricity is relatively expensive. With this system, you can control the amount of energy you use yourself. You’ll become more aware of how you use electricity and thus learn how to save on your electricity bills.

The Pagatinu system is installed via a terminal with a keypad. Each terminal has a unique number. On the display, you can view and recharge your credit using the keypad by entering the recharge number you’ll receive when you buy electricity. You can recharge your credit at most supermarkets and many gas stations.

How can I find out my Pagatinu number?

To find the Pagatinu number, check the card that came with the terminal. The owner must give you that number so you can recharge at any time. You can also find a code on the display. If the Pagatinu system box is white, you can enter the code #4#. If the box is new or gray, enter the code #100#. The 11-digit number is also visible on a label or barcode on the Pagatinu box mounted on the wall. With that number, go to the store and purchase energy credit in the amount of your choice. In exchange, you’ll receive a voucher with a number on it. It shows the number of units you’ve purchased and a code. Enter this code into the Pagatinu meter at home, and your units will be updated. Pretty simple, right?

How and where can I buy credit for my Pagatinu?

Locations with Pagomático

Locations with Pagafasil

PRACTICAL TIPS

- Air conditioning uses the most electricity. If possible, cool the room and use a fan. You can also set the air conditioner to turn off after a certain number of hours.

- Will you be staying at an Airbnb or an apartment? Check with the owner to see if electricity is included or if it’s a prepaid system. This way, you’ll avoid unpleasant surprises if you end up without power because you didn’t know you had to recharge the meter for your usage.

- If you live in Curaçao or will be staying there for an extended period and need to top up your Pagatinu without leaving home, you can do so online via the following page by making a transfer from your MCB account: 24 Uur Uit De Muur (instructions in English). Normally, after making the transfer and submitting the request form, you’ll receive the code to top up your Pagatinu via WhatsApp within 30 minutes to 1 hour. If you don’t have an MCB account, the transfer may take 24–48 hours before your request is processed. Be sure to do this in advance.

Do you have any other questions about using the Pagatinu system in Curaçao? Send us a message, and we'll be happy to help.